gaining time

USAGE SUMMARY

"gaining time" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means using or obtaining time in a strategic or advantageous way. Example: "When faced with a difficult decision, it's important to carefully weigh all options to ensure that we are gaining time rather than wasting it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

"Meanwhile, Iran is gaining time".

The New York Times

I realized I was gaining time to do other things.

The New York Times

Mr. Muller responded by voluntarily seeking court protection from creditors, gaining time to seek funds.

The New York Times

Hakkinen started to increase his speed, gaining time on the Ferrari.

The New York Times - Sports

I probably gave some evasive answer, or one that would permit gaining time.

Yale University

Meanwhile, Hamilton made two perfect pit stops, on Lap 20 and Lap 46, gaining time on his pursuers.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

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

The Guardian - Sport

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

How would I have managed to gain time?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

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

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing strategic delays or postponements, use "gaining time" to emphasize the proactive nature of the delay. For example: "The negotiator used stalling tactics, "gaining time" to reassess their position."

Common error

Avoid using "gaining time" to describe simple procrastination or inaction. The phrase implies a strategic purpose behind the delay, not just a lack of progress. For example, saying "He was "gaining time" by watching TV" is incorrect unless there's a clear strategic goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gaining time" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger clause to describe an action taken to create a strategic advantage through delay. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gaining time" is a versatile expression that describes the strategic use of delay, often implying a purposeful intention to secure an advantage. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used across diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific research. When using "gaining time", remember to ensure the context suggests a deliberate strategy rather than simple procrastination. Consider alternatives like "buying time" or "winning time" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ludwig examples underscore the importance of strategic intent when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

winning time

Similar to "gaining time", this implies using time to one's advantage, specifically to win or succeed.

obtaining time

This phrase focuses on the act of acquiring or securing time, often implying a deliberate effort to do so.

buying time

Suggests delaying an event or action to create more time for preparation or decision-making. There is an explicit sense of postpone.

securing time

Emphasizes the act of making time certain or safe, often implying a need to protect or ensure its availability.

creating opportunity

Shift the meaning slightly from time to opportunity that time might provide. It suggests making space for a specific chance.

making headway

Less focused on time itself, but conveys progress or advancement, using time effectively to move forward.

making progress

Like "making headway", this shifts the focus to advancement achieved through the use of time.

profiting time

This alternative is quite rare and emphasizes using time in a valuable way.

exploiting time

Similar to profiting time, it suggests maximizing the benefit of time, potentially in a strategic or opportunistic manner.

leveraging time

Emphasizes using time as a resource or tool to achieve a specific goal or outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "gaining time" to describe a situation where someone is strategically delaying an action to achieve a specific goal. For example: "The company delayed the product launch, gaining time to improve its features."

What is a good substitute for "gaining time"?

Alternatives to "gaining time" include "buying time", "obtaining time", or "winning time", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "gaining time" or "winning time"?

Both "gaining time" and "winning time" are valid, but they have slightly different connotations. "Gaining time" implies a strategic delay, while "winning time" suggests using time to achieve a victory or advantage.

What's the difference between "gaining time" and "wasting time"?

"Gaining time" implies a purposeful and strategic use of delay, while "wasting time" suggests unproductive or frivolous activity. They are antonyms in the context of time management.