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in the course of time
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE 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
Alternative expressions(20)
is equivalent to
in the wishes of
rapidly thereafter
for the immediate future
Very soon
somewhere later
one week before
at the early time
in the next weeks
during the previous years
it is important to remember
to avoid disruption
not yet completed
in accordance with direction from
a couple of books before
if not soon
in two days
as excellent as
in a flash
as instructed by the directive
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
58 human-written examples
All languages change in the course of time.
Encyclopedias
In the course of time, these developed endless technical ramifications.
Encyclopedias
Yes, but they change in the course of time.
Academia
The change of morphology of obtained oxide coatings in the course of time was studied.
In the course of time, many tribes were depleted and scattered.
Encyclopedias
In the course of time, their lunch did not make the film's final cut.
News & Media
In the course of time, however, these systems have been subject to change.
Encyclopedias
In general, however, they lose in the course of time this particularistic characteristic.
Encyclopedias
In the course of time the politics of the Pythagorean parties became decidedly antidemocratic.
Encyclopedias
The phenomenon of relaxation leads to a decrease in the loading force in the course of time.
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.
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.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
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.
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(6)
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.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested