in record time

USAGE SUMMARY

"in record time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something that has been accomplished quickly or in a short amount of time. For example: "He finished the marathon in record time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They fixed it up in record time".

The New Yorker

Something almost did, and in record time.

Independent

We built it in record time".

The New York Times

"The buildings sold out in record time".

The New York Times

"Tonight we have finished in record time," Wollack said.

The New York Times

All this insight was gleaned in record time.

The Economist

He won by seven lengths in record time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Entitlements" went from nowhere to everywhere in record time.

The New Yorker

Tickets sold out in record time last October.

Independent

In record time, numbers in UPE schools soared.

The Guardian

CHRISTINE BARANSKI introduced a film clip in record time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in record time" to emphasize not just speed, but also that a task was completed faster than it ever had been before. This highlights an achievement or sets a new benchmark.

Common error

Avoid using "in record time" when simply referring to a quick completion. This phrase implies surpassing a previous best, not just general speed. Use phrases like "quickly" or "promptly" if no record was broken.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in record time" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the speed and unprecedented nature of an action. Ludwig AI's examples confirm its use to describe accomplishments achieved faster than ever before.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in record time" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to emphasize exceptional speed and efficiency in achieving a task. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently found in News & Media. To use it correctly, ensure that the action truly surpasses previous records, distinguishing it from mere quickness. While appropriate for formal writing, be mindful of the context to maintain a neutral to professional tone. When a more general term for speed is enough, consider alternatives such as "very quickly" or "with great speed".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

faster than ever before

Highlights unprecedented speed, similar to setting a record.

very quickly

Focuses on the speed of the action, omitting the 'record' aspect.

with great speed

Emphasizes the velocity at which something is done.

in short order

Suggests efficiency and promptness, rather than a specific time record.

at lightning speed

Highlights the extreme rapidity of the action.

with exceptional swiftness

Underlines the quick and efficient nature of the process.

with maximum efficiency

Highlights optimized processes leading to fast completion.

at breakneck pace

Implies a rapid and potentially risky speed.

in the blink of an eye

Emphasizes the suddenness and speed of an event.

before you knew it

Focuses on the unexpected quickness of the event.

FAQs

How can I use "in record time" in a sentence?

Use "in record time" to describe an action completed faster than any previous instance. For example, "The project was completed "in record time", exceeding all expectations."

What are some alternatives to saying "in record time"?

Alternatives include "very quickly", "with great speed", or "faster than ever before", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in record time" in formal writing?

Yes, "in record time" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when highlighting significant achievements or breakthroughs. However, ensure the context clearly indicates a surpassed record.

What's the difference between "in record time" and "quickly"?

"Quickly" simply denotes speed, whereas "in record time" indicates that something was done faster than it has ever been done before. Therefore, "in record time" is more specific and impactful.