frenetic time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "frenetic time" is not commonly used in written English, but it is grammatically correct.
You can use it to describe a period characterized by intense activity or chaos, often implying a lack of calm or order. Example: "In the frenetic time leading up to the holidays, everyone seemed to be rushing around, trying to finish their shopping."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Perhaps, given the length and cost of their journeys, they prefer to arrive at a less frenetic time.

The Economist

And they move fast, because their schedules are frenetic, time is short, and beauty, as is well known, is fleeting.

The New York Times - Style

I think the event will be remembered as a cautionary service, conservative in spirit and progressive in principle, to a frenetic time.

The New Yorker

It's been a very frenetic time and I wanted to get to know the people and talk about where the business was and where it was heading".

The Guardian - Business

The footwork is essential to the unique compás of flamenco music – the frenetic time signature that gives the dance its relentless percussive rhythm.

The Guardian

A brain-deadening collision of high concept and low standards, this frenetic time waster from Robert Luketic requires Ashton Kutcher to play a superspy and Katherine Heigl to play — well, the same bubbly-sexy-anxious chick she always plays.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

(Grisey himself spoke of the difference between the sort of super-slow time experienced by whales as opposed to the frenetic time-scale of insects).

The Guardian - Music

It can be done alone or with a guide (digital or human), and with so much hand-wringing about our frenetic, time-poor lifestyles and information overload, it seems to offer a wholesome solution: a quiet port in the storm and an opportunity for self-examination.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While appraisals are generally intended to reflect the market value of a house, an overheated real estate market can sometimes lead buyers to offer more for a house than it would be worth in less frenetic times.

The New York Times

RUBEN Santiago-Hudson's play, "Lackawanna Blues," which is about goodness, caring and helping, seems out of step with these frenetic times, where many are obsessed with anxiety, consumed by fear.

The New York Times

Hanging over the estuary, looking out at the oyster ropes, is the at times frenetic, at times peaceful Chez Jackie (0033 2 98 06 90 32, chez-jacky.com) definitely adventure playground food.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "frenetic time" to vividly describe periods marked by a flurry of activity, ensuring the context supports the implication of potential chaos or stress. For example, "The weeks before the product launch were a "frenetic time" for the marketing team."

Common error

Avoid using "frenetic time" to describe situations that are merely busy or active. Ensure the situation genuinely involves a sense of disarray, urgency, or potential loss of control. A simple "busy period" or "active phase" might be more appropriate if the situation lacks these elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frenetic time" functions as a descriptor, characterizing a period marked by intense and often chaotic activity. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in diverse contexts, from wildfire command posts to the holiday season.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "frenetic time" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a period characterized by intense and often chaotic activity. As indicated by Ludwig, its use is mostly concentrated in News & Media contexts. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys a sense of urgency and potential disarray. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the context justifies the implication of chaos or stress, as a simpler term like "busy period" may be more appropriate in less intense situations. Consider alternatives such as "hectic period" or "frantic moment" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hectic period

Replaces "frenetic" with "hectic", maintaining the sense of intense activity but with a slightly less chaotic connotation.

frantic moment

Substitutes "frenetic" with "frantic", highlighting the sense of urgency and possible disarray.

turbulent era

Replaces "frenetic" with "turbulent", shifting the focus to a period marked by instability and upheaval.

chaotic phase

Uses "chaotic" instead of "frenetic", emphasizing the lack of order and predictability.

intense spell

Replaces "frenetic" with "intense" and "time" with "spell", highlighting the high level of activity over a limited duration.

manic interval

Employs "manic" instead of "frenetic", suggesting an uncontrolled and possibly erratic pace.

frenzied duration

Replaces "frenetic" with "frenzied", implying a wild and uncontrolled state of activity.

tumultuous span

Uses "tumultuous" instead of "frenetic", underscoring the disruptive and agitated nature of the period.

high-pressure timeframe

Replaces "frenetic" with "high-pressure", shifting the emphasis to the stress and demands of the period.

feverish stage

Substitutes "frenetic" with "feverish", suggesting a state of heightened excitement and activity, possibly bordering on the irrational.

FAQs

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

You can use "frenetic time" to describe a period filled with intense activity and possibly chaos. For example, "The holiday season is often a "frenetic time" for retailers".

What are some alternatives to "frenetic time"?

You can use alternatives like "hectic period", "frantic moment", or "turbulent era" depending on the specific context.

Is "frenetic time" formal or informal?

While not overly formal, "frenetic time" is suitable for use in news articles and general writing. More formal contexts might benefit from phrases like "period of intense activity" or "phase of heightened demand".

Which is more appropriate: "frenetic time" or "busy time"?

"Frenetic time" implies a chaotic and possibly uncontrolled level of activity. "Busy time" is more general and simply indicates a period of high activity without necessarily suggesting disarray. The better choice depends on the specific situation you are describing.