inordinate amount of time

USAGE SUMMARY

"inordinate amount of time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It typically refers to an excessive amount of time that is greater than what is necessary or reasonable. Example sentence: "I have been working on this project for an inordinate amount of time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An inordinate amount of time was spent haggling with clients.

The New York Times

"He spent an inordinate amount of time with attorneys.

The New York Times

I do spend in inordinate amount of time studying cosmetics.

The New York Times - Style

That pass of his bought an inordinate amount of time for his stand-off.

Independent

We seem to spend an inordinate amount of time on births and deaths.

The New York Times

"It can tie up the court system for an inordinate amount of time".

The New York Times

"Jack Straw spent an inordinate amount of time cossetting his Muslim constituents in Blackburn.

Independent

(Yes, I've spent an inordinate amount of time on a bicycle seat this year).

The New York Times

"We have spent an inordinate amount of time on our defense," Spoelstra said.

The New York Times - Sports

– US policymakers spend an inordinate amount of time and energy thinking about (and plotting against) Iran.

The Guardian

I was also spending an inordinate amount of time watching out for bulls.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "inordinate amount of time", ensure the context clearly demonstrates why the time spent is considered excessive or unreasonable. This adds impact and justifies the use of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "inordinate amount of time" as a generic intensifier. Provide specific details or context to support why the time is considered excessive, rather than relying on the phrase alone to convey the meaning. For instance, instead of just saying "He spent an inordinate amount of time on the report", specify what made the time excessive, such as "He spent an inordinate amount of time on the report, delaying other crucial projects."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inordinate amount of time" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the extent to which time is spent on a particular activity. It emphasizes that the duration is excessive or unreasonable. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

13%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inordinate amount of time" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe an excessive or unreasonable duration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid phrase in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it conveys disapproval or concern about inefficient time usage. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates why the time spent is deemed excessive. Alternatives like "excessive amount of time" or "undue amount of time" can be used to add nuance to the description. Remember to provide specific details rather than over-relying on the phrase itself to communicate the extent of the duration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessive amount of time

Emphasizes that the time spent is more than what is considered normal or acceptable.

undue amount of time

Suggests that the time spent is inappropriate or unwarranted given the circumstances.

disproportionate amount of time

Highlights that the time allocation is unbalanced or unfair in relation to other factors.

unreasonable amount of time

Focuses on the lack of logic or justification for the duration.

outrageous amount of time

Implies that the duration is shocking or offensive in its excessiveness.

unwarranted amount of time

Suggests that the time spent lacks a valid or legitimate reason.

gratuitous amount of time

Highlights that the time spent is unnecessary or uncalled for.

exorbitant amount of time

Indicates that the time spent is excessively high or costly.

protracted period

Emphasizes the length and drawn-out nature of the time.

extended duration

Focuses on the longer-than-usual length of time involved.

FAQs

What does "inordinate amount of time" mean?

The phrase "inordinate amount of time" refers to an excessive or unreasonable duration spent on something, often more than is necessary or expected.

How can I use "inordinate amount of time" in a sentence?

You can use "inordinate amount of time" to describe situations where time spent is excessive, such as, "The project required an "inordinate amount of time" to complete due to unforeseen complications."

What are some alternatives to "inordinate amount of time"?

Alternatives include "excessive amount of time", "undue amount of time", or "disproportionate amount of time", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "inordinate amount of time"?

Yes, "inordinate amount of time" is a grammatically correct and widely accepted phrase used to describe an unreasonably long duration.