it elapsed swiftly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it elapsed swiftly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where time has passed quickly, often in a narrative or reflective context. Example: "As I sat by the fire, lost in thought, I realized that it elapsed swiftly, and the night had slipped away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The flight to Sydney is long -- about 14 hours nonstop just from Los Angeles -- but the travel writer and humorist Bill Bryson's vastly entertaining takes on Australia should make it elapse swiftly.

The New York Times - Travel

The time elapsed swiftly as he sadly sipped from his soda.

The New York Times

It doesn't do much – it basically shows elapsed time – but it does it in a decidedly sexy way.

TechCrunch

As time elapsed, it became a cumulative process.

Nanoscale Research Letters

"If it does, we will deal with it swiftly".

Forbes

It died swiftly and horribly.

The New Yorker

It was swiftly cancelled.

The New Yorker

It was swiftly defeated.

The Guardian

Other companies are doing it more swiftly.

The Economist

(It was swiftly removed from the site).

The New Yorker

It does, swiftly, with a small thud.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it elapsed swiftly" when aiming for a slightly formal or literary tone to describe the rapid passage of time, especially in narrative contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "it elapsed swiftly" in casual conversation or informal writing; simpler phrases like "it went by fast" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it elapsed swiftly" functions as a clause expressing the manner in which time passes. Ludwig indicates this usage is grammatically correct. The verb 'elapsed' signifies the passing of time, while 'swiftly' modifies it to indicate speed.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it elapsed swiftly" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe the rapid passing of time. Ludwig indicates that the phrase, while correct, is relatively infrequent and leans toward formal contexts. Alternative phrases such as "it passed quickly" may be more appropriate in informal settings. It is typically found in narrative contexts and conveys a sense of speed and brevity. While its source quality is high, it's important to consider the context to avoid overuse in casual communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it passed quickly

Focuses on the speed of passing, maintaining a neutral tone.

it flew by

Uses a more vivid metaphor to emphasize the rapid passing of time.

it went by in a flash

Emphasizes the sudden and rapid nature of the time passing.

it hurried past

Highlights the accelerated pace at which something is moving.

it vanished in no time

Focuses on the disappearance aspect, emphasizing speed.

it sped along

Implies a continuous, fast movement through time.

it raced by

Uses a racing metaphor to convey speed and urgency.

it slipped away rapidly

Highlights the subtle and quick disappearance of something.

it fast approached

Shifts focus to the destination or end, emphasizing quick arrival.

it advanced swiftly

Similar to 'advanced quickly', conveying speed and progress.

FAQs

How can I use "it elapsed swiftly" in a sentence?

You can use "it elapsed swiftly" to describe how time passes quickly, often in a narrative. For example, "As I sat by the fire, lost in thought, "it elapsed swiftly", and the night had slipped away."

What can I say instead of "it elapsed swiftly"?

You can use alternatives like "it passed quickly", "it flew by", or "it went by in a flash" depending on the context.

Is "it elapsed swiftly" formal or informal?

The phrase "it elapsed swiftly" leans toward the formal side. Simpler alternatives might be better suited for informal situations.

What's the difference between "it elapsed swiftly" and "it passed quickly"?

"It elapsed swiftly" carries a slightly more formal and literary tone than "it passed quickly", which is more neutral and widely applicable.