hand of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hand of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to refer to the passage of time or the influence of time on events and experiences. Example: "As we reflect on our lives, we realize how the hand of time has shaped our memories and relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This wasn't Rothko's hand or the hand of time; it was the material's instability in the chapel's humid conditions.

The New Yorker

And the hand of time: what conservators call "losses" — lacunae, expanses of bare wood — overwhelmed the original images.

The New Yorker

The elderly gentleman, to my eye, seemed particularly uncomfortable on his walk as he passed the hand of time.

The New York Times

"In the heart of Sudan, and to the west of the White Nile," George Rodger, a Life photographer, wrote after a trip to Nuba in 1948, "there is a strange, unreal land which the hand of time has hardly touched in passing".

The New York Times - Magazine

Perhaps a bunch of blokes who did something amazing way back when, and have now started to feel the cold hand of time on their shoulders, and who may feel they have some unfinished business, want to give it one last go?

The Guardian

Now, for the first time, two groups of scientists have found some scenes that aren't reversible--direct evidence of the hand of time in subatomic decay.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

So the world today's graduates are inheriting is in many ways a turn-back-the-hands-of-time, pre-1989 "back-to-the-future" kind of world.

Forbes

We can't turn back the hands of time.

The New York Times - Sports

Maybe Peterson will continue to go untouched by the hands of time.

The Washington Post

Apparently the C.I.A. wants to turn back the hands of time.

The New York Times

There were only tepid handshakes, awkward embraces and warm faces massaged by the hands of time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a specific consequence of time, clarify if you are emphasizing the destructive aspects (aging, decay) or the transformative ones (growth, evolution).

Common error

Avoid using "hand of time" in contexts where a literal, physical intervention is implied. This phrase refers to time's abstract influence, not a tangible force.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hand of time" functions as a metaphorical expression. It typically acts as a subject or object in a sentence, describing time's influence on events or entities. It personifies time, attributing a 'hand' that shapes the world.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hand of time" is a metaphorical expression used to describe the influence and effects of time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. While not the most frequent phrase, it effectively evokes the sense of time's inevitable impact, whether destructive or transformative. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. When using "hand of time", consider its poetic nature and ensure it fits the overall tone and formality of your writing. Remember, the phrase refers to time's abstract influence rather than a literal force.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

passage of time

Emphasizes the continuous flow of time.

ravages of time

Focuses on the destructive aspect of time.

irrevocable flow of time

Focuses on the inability to reverse time's forward movement.

inevitable march of time

Underscores the unavoidable nature of time's progression.

relentless tempo of time

Highlights time's constant and unforgiving pace.

effects of aging

Specifically relates to the consequences of growing older.

temporal influence

Emphasizes the general effect that time has on entities.

long lapse of ages

Highlights extended periods and their impact.

finger of destiny

Suggests a predetermined course influenced by time and fate.

course of history

Relates to the unfolding of historical events over time.

FAQs

How can I use "hand of time" in a sentence?

You can use "hand of time" to describe the effects of aging, decay, or historical changes. For example, "The old photograph showed how the "hand of time" had weathered the building's facade."

What does "the ravages of time" refer to?

The phrase "ravages of time" refers to the destructive effects of time, often associated with aging, decay, or ruin.

Is it correct to say "turn back the hands of time"?

Yes, the phrase "turn back the "hands of time"" is a common idiom meaning to reverse or undo something that has already happened.

What's a more formal way to express the idea of "hand of time"?

In a more formal context, you could use "passage of time" or "historical progression" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.