in a definitive time frame

USAGE SUMMARY

"in a definitive time frame" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a specific amount of time within which a task must be completed. For example, "The project must be completed in a definitive time frame of two weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Therefore, nanoclays control the biodegradation of different polymers in a definitive time frame.

Polymer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Franklin Gutierrez of the Mariners has a pectoral injury, and though we don't have a definitive time frame for his return, he'll open the year on the disabled list.

The New York Times

"How long have you been separated?" You might get a definitive time frame, however, if you ask this same question a few more times throughout a conversation and the answer keeps changing...this would be a red flag.

Huffington Post

Mr. Marchionne has said he wants an agreement in principle within 30 days, but Mr. Guttenberg gave no definitive time frame for a decision on Monday.

The New York Times

But Mr. Guttenberg gave no definitive time frame for a decision Monday.

The New York Times

Flash fiction, in a flash, is Big ideas in a short time frame.

Huffington Post

Watch as people in discomfort solve problems under pressure in a short time frame.

Huffington Post

Southward dispersals in an earlier time frame from the NW region and in a later time frame from the SE region were inferred.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

The recently defined quasi-definitive observatory data type has been introduced to meet the need to provide observatory data suitable for use in field modeling in a more rapid time frame and for producing Level 2 products planned for the upcoming European Space Agency Swarm mission.

Earth, Planets and Space

In an unwieldy time frame, events are confusing.

The New York Times

The data was collected in a six months' time frame.

Construction and Building Materials

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting project timelines, use "in a definitive time frame" to emphasize the importance of adhering to strict deadlines and avoiding open-ended commitments.

Common error

Avoid using "in a definitive time frame" when the project's timeline requires adaptability. Opt for phrases like "within a flexible timeframe" or "subject to adjustments" to acknowledge potential changes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a definitive time frame" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying when an action should occur. Ludwig examples demonstrate this by showing that nanoclays control biodegradation in a definitive time frame.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in a definitive time frame" is a correct, albeit rare, phrase used to indicate that something must be completed within a specific and fixed period. According to Ludwig, while grammatically sound, its usage is primarily found in scientific and news contexts, making it suitable for professional communication when a clear deadline needs to be emphasized. When more flexibility is needed, alternative phrases should be considered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within a fixed timeframe

Replaces "definitive" with "fixed", emphasizing the immutability of the time period.

within a specific duration

Substitutes "time frame" with "duration", focusing on the length of time.

in a clearly defined period

Uses "clearly defined period" instead of "definitive time frame", clarifying the certainty of the timeframe.

within a set time limit

Replaces "time frame" with "time limit", stressing that there's a firm boundary.

in a predetermined timeframe

Emphasizes that the timeframe was decided in advance.

in a finite period

Highlights that the period is not infinite.

within a concise timeframe

Highlights the brief nature of the timeframe.

in a precise duration

Stresses the accuracy of the duration.

within an exact timeframe

Emphasizes the preciseness of the timeframe.

in a strict deadline

Focuses on the stringent nature of the completion date.

FAQs

How can I use "in a definitive time frame" in a sentence?

You can use "in a definitive time frame" to specify that something needs to be completed within a certain period. For example, "The study must be completed "in a definitive time frame" of six months."

What are some alternatives to "in a definitive time frame"?

Alternatives include "within a fixed timeframe", "within a specific duration", or "in a clearly defined period". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "in a definitive time frame" or "within a specific timeframe"?

"In a definitive time frame" and "within a specific timeframe" are generally similar in formality. The choice often depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Definitive" emphasizes certainty, while "specific" highlights precision.

When should I avoid using "in a definitive time frame"?

Avoid using "in a definitive time frame" when you need to convey flexibility or uncertainty about the duration. In such cases, alternatives like "within a flexible timeframe" or "subject to adjustments" are more suitable.