in the course of things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the course of things" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the natural progression or development of events over time. Example: "In the course of things, we learned that collaboration often leads to better outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

In the course of things, sometimes magical pictures arrive".

The New York Times - Arts

He had to respond to challenges in the course of things.

The New Yorker

What that meant, in the course of things, is that he also wrote about pop music.

The New Yorker

He's become very small in the course of things — maybe eight inches tall.

The New Yorker

In the course of things, Dick Clark Productions was caught in the middle.

The New York Times

Without, at the very least, some sign of evolving irritation or pride at the way dog life has, in the course of things, turned out?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

In general, Washington's ability to dictate the course of things in the Middle East appears to have eroded in recent months as the Bush administration has resisted international calls to become more engaged.

The New York Times

In this case the argument could change the course of things far beyond Cleveland.

The New York Times

I mean, in the course of discussion things happen, people interrupt and they either say sorry or let me finish – it happens.

The New York Times

Chemist Edith Ellyn (Helena Bonham Carter) emphasises at one point that no people should be harmed in the course of blowing things up.

The Guardian - Film

But there is no question that a President can, in the course of doing things that he is allowed to do—such as hiring and firing people commit crimes, for example by taking bribes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the course of things" when you want to emphasize that something is a natural or expected consequence of events unfolding over time. It adds a sense of inevitability or normalcy to the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "in the course of things" when describing sudden or unexpected events. This phrase implies a natural progression, so it's not appropriate for situations that deviate from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the course of things" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to introduce a clause that describes something that happens naturally or as a result of events unfolding. Ludwig AI indicates this is a correct usage. It sets the context by suggesting a normal or expected progression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the course of things" serves to frame events as natural progressions or expected outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting its function as a prepositional phrase that provides temporal and causal context. Primarily found in News & Media, but also present in Academia, the phrase indicates a neutral to formal register. Remember to use it when describing events that are part of a logical sequence and avoid applying it to sudden or unexpected situations. Alternatives like "as things unfold" and "over time" can offer similar meanings, depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as things unfold

This alternative focuses on the unfolding nature of events, emphasizing a gradual revelation.

as time goes on

This alternative highlights the passage of time as events progress.

in due time

This alternative suggests that events will happen when they are meant to, without rushing.

over time

This alternative is a broader expression referring to the progression of events through time.

eventually

This alternative indicates that something will happen at a later point as a consequence of ongoing events.

in the fullness of time

This alternative conveys that events will happen when the time is right, often implying a sense of completeness.

as a matter of course

This alternative suggests something happens as a natural or expected consequence.

in the natural order

This alternative emphasizes the adherence to a natural sequence of events.

in the process

This alternative refers to the events that occur during a specific action or period.

down the line

This alternative refers to future events, suggesting that something will happen at a later stage.

FAQs

How can I use "in the course of things" in a sentence?

You can use "in the course of things" to indicate something that happens as a natural consequence or normal progression of events. For example, "In the course of things, delays are bound to happen when dealing with large projects".

What are some alternatives to "in the course of things"?

Alternatives include "as things unfold", "over time", or "eventually". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "in the course of things" formal or informal?

"In the course of things" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, it is more common in written language than in casual conversation.

What is the difference between "in the course of things" and "in the normal course of events"?

While both phrases indicate a typical progression, "in the normal course of events" explicitly refers to what usually happens, whereas "in the course of things" is a bit more general and focuses on the natural order or progression.