for its time

USAGE SUMMARY

'for its time' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when making a comparison between the current time and a prior time to imply that something was progressive or advanced for that past period of time. For example, "The Wright Brothers' first airplane was impressive for its time, yet it is vastly outmatched by modern aircraft."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is as if it was waiting for its time.

The Guardian

It was radical for its time and it opened the floodgates of democracy.

Huffington Post

A: True, and for its time it was incredible.

Huffington Post

If not, thank it for its time and move on".

Huffington Post

It was, for its time, a very modern marriage.

The Guardian - Arts

Its 25 minute mean-time-between failures made it relatively reliable for its time(1956).

Stanford University

It was marvelously inventive for its time.

The New York Times

Founded by Jimi Hendrix in 1970, it was an oddity for its time.

The New York Times - Arts

It was too much for its time.

Huffington Post

In 2001 it presented shareholders with what was, for its time, a model incentive scheme.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Wimbledon is known for its time-honoured traditions of humility, discipline, respect and values.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for its time", ensure you're clearly establishing a contrast with current standards or expectations to emphasize the progress or limitations of the past.

Common error

Avoid using "for its time" anachronistically, that is, when there is no genuine historical context or when comparing something to a period vastly different or unrelated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for its time" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or adjective, providing context about when something occurred or existed. As noted by Ludwig AI, it sets a comparative baseline between the past and present. This is substantiated through the numerous examples Ludwig provides, where the phrase qualifies the innovative or advanced nature of something within its historical context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

13%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for its time" is a prepositional phrase used to provide historical context and compare past achievements with present-day standards. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. As demonstrated by the Ludwig examples, the phrase is particularly common in news and media outlets and is used to evaluate the significance or limitations of something within its specific historical context. To enhance clarity, ensure a distinct contrast between past and present is evident when employing "for its time". While versatile, avoid ahistorical application by relating it to a relevant time. Understanding this phrase enhances your ability to communicate progress, innovation, and historical perspective effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

judged by the standards of the time

Highlights that perspectives change over the course of time, so it's important to measure the qualities of something with an understanding of the specific nuances of a time period.

for the historical context

Refers to a specific period and background that provides a unique lens through which to analyze a topic.

when viewed in its historical context

Stresses the importance of understanding something within its specific historical setting.

by the standards of the day

Explicitly references the norms and values prevalent at the time.

according to the norms of that time

Similar to 'by the standards of the day' but more formal.

considering the era

Similar to 'given the period' but places more emphasis on reflection.

given the period

Highlights consideration of the prevailing circumstances of the time.

in that era

Focuses on a specific period rather than comparing to the present.

at that point in history

Emphasizes a precise moment within the past.

in those days

Evokes a sense of nostalgia or reminiscence about the past.

FAQs

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

Use "for its time" to highlight how advanced, innovative, or significant something was in its specific historical context. For example, "The Model T was revolutionary "for its time" because it made automobiles affordable for the middle class."

What are some alternatives to "for its time"?

Alternatives include "in that era", "given the period", or "by the standards of the day", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "for its time" or "in its time"?

"For its time" emphasizes a comparison or contrast with the present, while "in its time" simply refers to something existing during that period without necessarily implying a comparison.

What does it mean when something is described as "ahead of its time"?

When something is described as "ahead of its time", it means that it contained innovative concepts, design, or ideas that were more advanced than what was generally available or accepted during that specific period.