gave it some time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gave it some time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to allowing a situation or decision to develop or change over a period of time before making a judgment or taking further action. Example: "After we had a disagreement, I decided to step back and gave it some time to see if our feelings would change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"They gave it some time, but it really has been an underperformer," Thill said.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

GIVE IT SOME TIME The amount of time it takes to make a case for a promotion really varies based on two things.

Huffington Post

Few industry watchers now believe that Marconi can survive as an independent company, although its existing contracts give it some time to ponder its fate.In some ways, Marconi's troubles echo Rover's.

The Economist

How long it can last is frankly speculative but the CCP has done enough to modernize its system to give it some time in power yet.

Forbes

In his speech on Thursday, he set no deadline for withdrawal, which Israel read as giving it some time to continue its operations.

The New York Times

Especially during your teenage years when your body is changing and growing so much, you need to give it some time to restore its energy.

WikiHow

Please give it some time.

The New Yorker

Just give it some time.

The Washington Post

Give it some time to marinate.

The Washington Post

That said, give it some time.

The Guardian - Money

"Give it some time," he counsels.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gave it some time" when you want to suggest patience or allowing a process to unfold naturally before making a decision or taking action. It is especially useful when referring to healing, adaptation, or development.

Common error

Avoid using "gave it some time" when a specific, short timeframe is necessary. This phrase implies a more general, undefined period, so use more specific terms if precision is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gave it some time" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the action of allowing a certain period to pass for a specific purpose. Ludwig AI indicates its common usage across diverse contexts, highlighting its adaptability. It often serves to soften the expectation of immediate results.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gave it some time" is a common and correct verbal phrase used to express the action of allowing a certain period to pass, often to facilitate healing, development, or decision-making. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts, from news and media to general discussions, although it's most suited for neutral or slightly informal situations. Consider alternatives like "allow time for it" or "let it mature" for more formal or nuanced expressions. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the situation's time sensitivity, as it implies patience and a less urgent approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give it a while

A more informal way of expressing a similar sentiment, using "while" to denote a period of time.

allow time for it

Focuses on providing the necessary duration, emphasizing the allowance of time.

afford it time

Emphasizes the action of granting time, similar to "allow time".

let it sit

Implies allowing something to remain undisturbed for a period to settle or develop.

let it mature

Suggests a natural development process, akin to aging or ripening.

permit a duration

Similar to "allow time", but emphasizes the permission aspect.

provide a window for it

Implies a specific timeframe or opportunity is being offered.

hold off for a period

Suggests a temporary suspension of activity or judgment.

let time pass

Highlights the passive experience of waiting as time progresses.

delay action on it

Indicates postponing a decision or intervention to observe further developments.

FAQs

How can I use "gave it some time" in a sentence?

You can use "gave it some time" to suggest allowing a situation or decision to develop over a period. For instance: "After the argument, I "gave it some time" to see if things would improve."

What's a more formal alternative to "gave it some time"?

For more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "allowed a period for development" or "permitted sufficient duration". These options offer similar meanings but are more appropriate for professional or academic settings.

Is "gave it some time" the same as "gave it some thought"?

No, "gave it some thought" implies considering something carefully, while ""gave it some time"" refers to allowing a period for something to happen or develop.

When is it not appropriate to use "gave it some time"?

Avoid using "gave it some time" when referring to urgent or immediate actions. This phrase implies a more leisurely or passive approach, which may not be suitable for situations requiring quick decisions.