in the course of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the course of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the passing of time or gradual development over time. For example, "In the course of time, the small village developed into a bustling city."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

All languages change in the course of time.

Britannica

In the course of time, these developed endless technical ramifications.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yes, but they change in the course of time.

Yale University

The change of morphology of obtained oxide coatings in the course of time was studied.

Surface and Coatings Technology

In the course of time, many tribes were depleted and scattered.

Britannica

In the course of time, their lunch did not make the film's final cut.

The New York Times - Style

In the course of time, however, these systems have been subject to change.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In general, however, they lose in the course of time this particularistic characteristic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the course of time the politics of the Pythagorean parties became decidedly antidemocratic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The phenomenon of relaxation leads to a decrease in the loading force in the course of time.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The genesis of disputes over Ganges water lies there which was aggravated eventually in the course of time.

Bandung: Journal of the Global South

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the course of time" to describe gradual changes or developments that occur over a period, adding a sense of natural progression to your narrative.

Common error

While "in the course of time" indicates gradual change, avoid using it when describing events that happen quickly or require immediate action. Choose a more direct phrase to emphasize speed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the course of time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate when an action or state occurs. It describes the progression or unfolding of events over a period. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

20%

News & Media

18%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the course of time" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate that something happens or changes gradually over a period. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts. Predominantly found in science, encyclopedias, and news media, its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for describing long-term processes and gradual developments. While alternatives like "over time" or "eventually" can be used, "in the course of time" adds a sense of natural progression that is often valuable. Be mindful of its connotation of gradual change and avoid using it in contexts that require immediacy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

over time

This alternative is shorter and more direct, focusing on the progression of time.

with the passage of time

This alternative emphasizes the process of time passing.

as time goes by

This is a more informal alternative, suggesting a gradual unfolding.

eventually

This focuses on the final outcome after a period of time.

in due time

This suggests that something will happen at the appropriate time.

down the line

This is an informal alternative that refers to the future.

in the fullness of time

This is a more formal and literary alternative.

as time elapses

This emphasizes the duration of time passing.

sooner or later

This alternative highlights the certainty of an event occurring at some point.

in the long run

This alternative focuses on the ultimate outcome after a considerable period.

FAQs

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

You can use "in the course of time" to describe how something changes or develops gradually over a period. For example, "In the course of time, the small village became a bustling city."

What phrases are similar to "in the course of time"?

Similar phrases include "over time", "eventually", or "as time goes by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "during the course of time"?

Yes, "during the course of time" is grammatically correct and carries the same meaning as "in the course of time". However, the latter is more concise.

How does "in the course of time" differ from "in a timely manner"?

"In the course of time" refers to changes happening gradually over a period, while "in a timely manner" means something is done efficiently and without delay. They address different aspects of time.