for a time

USAGE SUMMARY

"for a time" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something occurred or was true during a period of time that has already ended. For example: "We lived in Paris for a time, but eventually moved back to our hometown."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For a time, anyway.

The New Yorker

For a time, the R.O.E.

The New Yorker

For a time, he succeeded.

The New York Times - Books

At least for a time.

The Economist

Polio returned for a time.

The Economist

It looked good for a time.

The Economist

For a time, Donen epitomized Hollywood style.

The New Yorker

Erika Kuritani was silent for a time.

The New Yorker

It was for a time paralysed.

The Guardian

They were silent for a time.

The New Yorker

For a time, he attended college.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for a time" to indicate a limited duration that is already completed. It's suitable when describing past events or states that have since changed. For example: "For a time, she worked as a freelance writer."

Common error

Avoid using "for a time" when referring to an unspecified point in the future. Instead, use phrases like "for a while" or "eventually" to indicate uncertainty about the exact duration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs and indicating the duration of an action or state. It specifies that something occurred or existed during a limited period. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for a time" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to denote a limited duration in the past. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it specifies temporal extent and adds a sense of transience. Alternatives such as "temporarily" or "for a while" can be used for similar meanings. When writing, remember to use this phrase to refer to past events and avoid its use when referring to future indefinite events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a while

Similar in meaning, but can imply a slightly longer or more indefinite duration.

temporarily

Indicates a transient state, emphasizing the short-term nature more directly.

for a period

More formal and emphasizes the existence of defined start and end.

briefly

Focuses on the brevity of the duration, suggesting a very short period.

for the moment

Highlights the present situation, implying a possible change in the future.

momentarily

Emphasizes the fleeting nature of the action or state.

in the short term

Focuses on the immediate future and limited perspective.

in the interim

Highlights the bridging function of the time, suggesting temporary solution.

during a spell

Emphasizes a phase or period, usually connoting a specific condition.

for a season

Implies a duration related to a particular time of year, or a specific period in life.

FAQs

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

Use "for a time" to indicate that something was true or happened during a limited period in the past. For example, "He lived in Italy "for a time" before moving to Spain".

What are some alternatives to saying "for a time"?

You can use phrases like "temporarily", "for a while", or "briefly" instead of "for a time", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "for a time" when talking about the future?

No, "for a time" typically refers to a duration in the past. For the future, use phrases like "for a while" or "in the future".

What's the difference between "for a time" and "for the time being"?

"For a time" indicates a past period, while "for the time being" refers to the present and immediate future. "For a time" suggests something has already concluded, whereas "for the time being" implies a temporary current state.