gain time

USAGE SUMMARY

Gain time is a phrase that is used when someone is trying to increase the amount of time they have to do something, or to achieve something.
It is a correct and usable phrase in written English. For example: "We need to gain time if we want to finish our project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a very good opportunity to gain time".

The Guardian - Sport

"You'll lose the human contact but gain time," he said.

The New York Times

How would I have managed to gain time?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

However, he can gain time but cannot avoid the unavoidable.

The Economist

It would gain time to restore its economic competitiveness.

The New York Times

That's an easy way to gain time, I'm afraid".

The New York Times - Sports

They are the places where we thought people would gain time".

The Guardian - Sport

"Video cameras?" he said, slightly surprised or as if to gain time.

The New Yorker

His appearance here was unscheduled and seemed designed to calm the atmosphere and gain time.

The Guardian - Sport

He appears willing to take casualties and to give away territory to gain time.

The New York Times

But when you fly west and gain time, it is easier to cope with this difference.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precision is important, specify how time is being gained (e.g., "gain time by streamlining processes").

Common error

While both phrases involve time, "gain time" suggests extending a deadline or creating additional time where it didn't exist before. "Save time", on the other hand, means using time more efficiently to accomplish tasks faster. Be clear about whether you are creating more time or simply using it better.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain time" functions as a verb phrase where "gain" is a transitive verb and "time" is the direct object. It indicates the act of acquiring or creating additional time, often for a specific purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gain time" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of creating more time, whether through strategic delays, efficient actions, or negotiation. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While synonymous with phrases like "buy time", it's essential to distinguish it from "save time", which focuses on efficiency rather than extension. By understanding these nuances and the examples provided by Ludwig, writers can effectively use "gain time" to enhance clarity and precision in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

buy time

Emphasizes the act of delaying something to secure more time for preparation or decision-making.

create leeway

Suggests generating additional flexibility or room for maneuver within a timeframe.

extend the deadline

Specifically refers to postponing the final date for completion or submission.

secure extra time

Highlights the action of obtaining or ensuring the availability of additional time.

win an extension

Focuses on successfully obtaining more time beyond the original schedule.

push back the schedule

Indicates a postponement of the entire plan or timeline.

prolong the duration

Highlights making something last longer than initially planned.

make up time

Suggests recovering time previously lost, often by working faster or more efficiently.

defer the decision

Implies postponing a decision to allow more time for deliberation or gathering information.

stall for more time

Conveys the act of deliberately delaying to secure extra time, often through indirect means.

FAQs

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

You can use "gain time" to describe actions that create more time, like "The lawyer used procedural tactics to "gain time" for their client" or "We need to "gain time" to properly assess the situation".

What's a synonym for "gain time"?

A synonym for "gain time" is "buy time". Both phrases describe strategies used to create more time for decision-making or action.

Is it better to say "gain time" or "save time"?

The choice between "gain time" and "save time" depends on the context. "Gain time" means creating more time, while "save time" means using existing time more efficiently. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the action being taken.

In what situations is "gain time" commonly used?

"Gain time" is often used in situations involving negotiations, strategic planning, or legal proceedings where creating more time can provide an advantage. It's also used when needing more time to complete a task or project.