for a finite time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a finite time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a duration that has a specific limit or endpoint, often in scientific or mathematical contexts. Example: "The experiment was conducted for a finite time to observe the effects of the variable."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

But on a smaller scale, for a finite time, they also create them.

The New York Times

The fans are not buying that; they are buying an experience that exists for a finite time, then goes away.

Forbes

"The idea was it will only be there for a finite time like we are," he said.

BBC

A recursive form of the observability measure for a finite time horizon is derived.

Automatica

Consequently, the utility sum maximization for a finite time period is formulated as an optimal finite-horizon control problem.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Grid service Subscription Protocol allows user/requestor agents to dynamically subscribe some grid services for a finite time period.

Journal of Network and Computer Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Rather similarly, if a body should fall into a black hole, it would fall for only a finite time, even though it were "beyond infinite" time by external standards.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Antibody formation against sheep erythrocytes by mouse spleen cells in vitro requires interactions among antigen-treated macrophages and lymphoid cells in cell culsters for only a finite time.

Science Magazine

The new US secretary of state John Kerry, at a press conference in Saudi Arabia on Monday, said there was a "finite" time for conclusion of the talks.

The Guardian

In an electron tube, for example, a negative charge results because electrons that are emitted from the cathode do not travel instantaneously to the plate (anode) but require a finite time for the trip.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The condition for the quenching occurrence in a finite time is given.

Boundary Value Problems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for a finite time" in technical writing, always specify the units of time (e.g. seconds, minutes, days) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "for a finite time" when you actually mean an indefinite or unlimited period. If the duration is not clearly bounded, use phrases like "for an extended period" or "indefinitely" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a finite time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the duration of an action or state. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

68%

News & Media

24%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for a finite time" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to specify that something occurs or exists for a limited duration. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While it appears more frequently in scientific and technical contexts, it can also be found in news and encyclopedic entries. When writing, ensure you specify the units of time when appropriate and avoid using it when you intend to convey an indefinite period. Alternative phrases like "for a limited duration" or "temporarily" can be used depending on the context. The phrase is uncommon, suggesting it is not as frequently used as some of its simpler alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a limited duration

Emphasizes the brevity of the period.

for a restricted period

Highlights constraints or limitations on the time.

temporarily

Expresses a transient state or action.

for a set time

Implies a predetermined and fixed duration.

for a specific timeframe

Focuses on a particular period with defined start and end points.

for a defined interval

Stresses the boundaries and limits of the time span.

for a measurable period

Indicates that the duration can be quantified.

for a transient moment

Suggests a very brief and fleeting instance.

for a passing phase

Indicates a temporary stage or condition.

ephemerally

Signifies a fleeting and short-lived existence.

FAQs

How can I use "for a finite time" in a sentence?

Use "for a finite time" to indicate that something exists or occurs for a limited, measurable duration. For instance, "The experiment was conducted for a finite time to observe the effects of the variable."

What is a more formal alternative to "for a finite time"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "for a limited duration" or "for a specified period" to convey the same meaning with increased precision.

Is it correct to use "for a finite time" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "for a finite time" is more common in technical or scientific contexts. In everyday conversation, simpler alternatives like "temporarily" or "for a short time" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "for a finite time" and "for an infinite time"?

"For a finite time" implies a limited and measurable duration, while "for an infinite time" suggests that something continues without end or limit. They are antonyms, representing opposite concepts of duration.