in useful time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in useful time" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used to refer to completing something within a timeframe that is beneficial or advantageous, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "Please ensure that the project is completed in useful time to meet our deadlines."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The average efficiency levels of BicPAM show its ability to perform exhaustive searches in useful time for computationally complex settings.

Algorithms for Molecular Biology

Presymptomatic genetic testing may be of value in increasing survival, since patients will be able to access treatment in useful time, before the disease progresses [ 45].

BioMed Research International

Such observations raise the question whether natural populations can adapt in useful time to this rather new type of pollution, that is, whether there can be rapid evolution in response to the pollution (Wedekind 2014).

Evolutionary Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

We estimate some $350 billion is likely to flow into the economy quickly, $255 billion won't do much, at least not in a useful time frame, and the impact of $144 billion in promised payroll tax cuts are a toss up.

Forbes

Leaping to new generations of technology is inherently hard and NASA's efforts may not bear fruit in any useful time period.

The New York Times

But if Israel will start new negotiations, with direct benefits for Palestinians in a useful time frame, we will accept that". Judging from the thousands of green posters plastered around the West Bank and Gaza, external matters like the peace process were not central to Hamas's electoral agenda.

The New York Times

As a consequence of symptom burden, the penalty in lost useful time is more readily measurable (Tables 5 and 6).

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Someone to empty the bins might come in useful from time to time, or rubbish will start piling up in the streets.

Independent

It also shows limited diagnostic accuracy in assessing response to therapy in a clinically useful time period.

Cancer Imaging

It can analyse entire human genomes in days and can produce sequences at a sub-genomic level in a clinically useful time frame.

British Journal of Cancer

A delay will also provide useful time in which a new government in Washington can engage with the new Russian government and reach a mutually beneficial basis for modifying the outdated ABM treaty.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and conciseness in formal writing, consider using more common alternatives like "in a timely manner" or "within a reasonable timeframe" instead of "in useful time".

Common error

Avoid using "in useful time" in formal reports or academic papers where clarity and established phrasing are crucial. Opt for more conventional expressions to ensure your writing is easily understood and well-received.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in useful time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate when or under what timing conditions an action should occur. It suggests the action should happen within a period that provides benefit or advantage. According to Ludwig, this phrasing is not commonly used.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in useful time" is a somewhat uncommon expression that suggests completing an action within a timeframe that provides a specific benefit. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI indicates it's not a standard or frequent phrase in written English. More common alternatives, such as "in a timely manner" or "within a reasonable timeframe", often offer greater clarity and are generally preferred in formal contexts. The phrase appears mostly in scientific and news-related articles, but it's advisable to use it with caution and consider more conventional options for greater clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a timely manner

This alternative is more standard and emphasizes the importance of acting without delay.

within a reasonable timeframe

This alternative focuses on achieving a goal within an expected or acceptable period.

in a productive timeframe

This alternative emphasizes that the time spent leads to positive outcomes or results.

in an effective period

This alternative stresses the impact and successfulness of the time interval.

while time is still beneficial

This alternative is a more verbose phrasing highlighting the beneficial aspect of acting within a certain timeframe.

before the opportune moment passes

This alternative is more figurative and conveys a sense of urgency and missed opportunity.

during the window of opportunity

This alternative uses a metaphor to indicate a limited period for advantageous action.

within the optimal timeframe

This alternative focuses on achieving the best possible results by acting within a specific period.

in due course

This alternative is a more formal and less specific way of saying 'eventually' or 'at the appropriate time'.

expeditiously

This alternative is a single-word adverb emphasizing speed and efficiency.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "in useful time" for better clarity?

You can use alternatives like "in a timely manner", "within a reasonable timeframe", or "expeditiously" depending on the context.

Is "in useful time" grammatically incorrect?

While not strictly incorrect, "in useful time" is not a standard English phrase. It's better to use more common and readily understood alternatives for clearer communication.

In what situations might "in useful time" be appropriate?

"In useful time" might be suitable in informal settings where the specific nuance of "beneficial timing" is desired, but it's generally safer to use more conventional phrasing.

What's the difference between "in useful time" and "in a timely manner"?

"In a timely manner" implies acting without unnecessary delay, whereas "in useful time" suggests completing something within a timeframe that maximizes its benefit. The former is more common and versatile.