in prime time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in prime time" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the time period when the largest audience is available to watch television, usually in the evening. Example: "The new drama series will air in prime time, attracting millions of viewers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Television

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In prime time.

The New Yorker

"But it's in prime time.

The New Yorker

ESPN televised the game in prime time.

The New York Times - Sports

They're back in prime time".

The New York Times

Can they do that in prime time?

The New York Times - Arts

NBC's dominance in prime time disappeared.

The New York Times

It ranks 14th in prime time.

The New York Times

Some, maybe, could air in prime time".

The New York Times

NBC ignored the convention in prime time.

The New York Times

In prime time, with millions watching?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Black and Asian actors regularly take leading roles in prime-time TV series," the newspaper noted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about television or broadcasting, using the phrase “in prime time” clearly indicates the hours when the largest audience is available. This can enhance the impact of your message and show awareness of television industry concepts.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase “in prime time” in contexts unrelated to broadcasting or television scheduling. For example, saying “the conference is scheduled in prime time” when referring to a generic peak period might confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in prime time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when an event occurs. It is frequently used to specify the timing of television programs, as seen in Ludwig examples, especially those from news and media sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Sports

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in prime time" is a common and grammatically sound expression predominantly used to specify the peak viewing hours for television programming. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase effectively communicates scheduling strategies and maximizes audience engagement, particularly in news, media and sport contexts. When writing, it’s essential to use the phrase appropriately, sticking to contexts where television broadcasting is relevant to avoid confusion. Alternatives such as "during peak hours" or "during prime hours" can offer flexibility, but "in prime time" retains its specific and widely understood meaning in media-related discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during prime hours

Emphasizes the premium quality of these hours for attracting viewers.

during peak viewing time

Highlights that it is a high point for people watching TV.

during peak hours

Focuses on the time frame with highest audience engagement, applicable beyond broadcasting.

at a premium time

Highlights the value of that moment on TV.

in a key time slot

Focuses on a specific time that's important for viewership.

at the best time slot

Highlights the strategic scheduling of content for maximum impact.

during top-rated hours

Focuses on the ratings and popularity that TV shows have during specific times.

during the evening slot

Specifies the part of the day when this phrase is valid, evening.

in the spotlight hours

Highlights the importance of being noticed when a TV show is on.

in golden time

It is a time of the day when something is more valuable than other times.

FAQs

How is "in prime time" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "in prime time" usually refers to the hours when a television network has the most viewers. For instance, "The new show will air "in prime time" to maximize its audience."

What are some alternatives to using "in prime time"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "during peak hours", "at the best time slot", or "during prime hours" to convey a similar meaning.

What does "in prime time" mean in the context of television?

In television, "in prime time" refers to the block of broadcast programming that is scheduled during the middle of the evening, when the most viewers are watching. It's considered the most valuable time for advertising and premiering new content.

Is it correct to use "in prime time" for events not related to television?

While primarily used in the context of television, "in prime time" can metaphorically refer to the peak or most important time for other events or activities. However, ensure the context is clear to avoid confusion.