give it time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "give it time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about allowing something to happen gradually over a period of time. For example, "If you're having a hard time adjusting to your new job, just give it time and you'll soon find your footing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But give it time.

The New York Times

"Give it time," continues Doodson.

Independent

Still, give it time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Do give it time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

D'Antoni seems inclined to give it time.

The New York Times - Sports

Ah, just give it time, Mrs. Warren.

The New Yorker

Give it time, Jean-Claude, give it time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"We must give it time".

The New York Times

Give it time, he said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Give it time," one user replied.

The Guardian

We have, but give it time.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "give it time" when you want to encourage patience and suggest that a situation will improve or clarify with the passage of time. It's especially useful when dealing with processes that require natural development or adjustment.

Common error

Avoid rushing to conclusions or making drastic changes before allowing sufficient time for a situation to unfold. Using "give it time" effectively means understanding that some things simply require a period of development.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give it time" functions as an imperative phrase, urging someone to be patient and allow a situation, process, or relationship to develop naturally. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate and functional in different scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

28%

Huffington Post

12%

Less common in

Science

3%

The New Yorker

2%

TechCrunch

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "give it time" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to encourage patience and the belief that situations will improve or clarify with the passage of time. As Ludwig AI confirms, its neutral register makes it suitable for both informal and formal contexts, although more formal situations might benefit from alternatives. The phrase is particularly frequent in News & Media and Wiki content. When using "give it time", remember to apply it when genuine development is expected, and avoid prematurely judging situations. Finally, explore alternatives to enrich your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be patient

A direct and simple exhortation to have patience.

afford it time

A more formal way of saying "give it time", emphasizing the allocation of time.

wait and see

Indicates a strategy of observing and delaying action until more information is available.

allow it to develop

Focuses on the natural progression and unfolding of a situation.

let time pass

Highlights the importance of the passage of time in resolving or clarifying a situation.

let it run its course

Implies a passive approach, allowing events to unfold without interference.

exercise patience

Emphasizes the need for personal restraint and forbearance.

let the dust settle

Suggests waiting for a period of confusion or disturbance to subside.

hold your horses

An informal idiom urging someone to wait and not rush into things.

sleep on it

Recommends delaying a decision until the next day after consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "give it time" in a sentence?

You can use "give it time" to suggest patience and the expectation that something will improve or become clear over time. For example, "The team is new, "give it time" and they will start performing better".

What are some alternatives to saying "give it time"?

Some alternatives include "be patient", "allow it to develop", or "let it run its course". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "give it time"?

It's appropriate when you believe that a situation, skill, or relationship needs a period of development or adjustment to reach its full potential. It's a way of encouraging patience and optimism.

Is "give it time" a formal or informal expression?

It's generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both informal and formal contexts. However, extremely formal situations might benefit from a more sophisticated alternative like "afford it time".