it is high time

USAGE SUMMARY

'It is high time' is a valid expression in written English.
You can use the phrase to express that the time is right to do something. For example, "It is high time that we discussed this issue in detail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is high time death had its own moment of truth".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is high time Zambia rediscovers its championship-wining form.

BBC

It is high time.

The New York Times

It is high time for such discussions.

The Economist

It is high time to change course.

The Economist

It is high time they developed them.

The Economist

It is high time for action.

The New York Times

It is high time for a revival.

The Guardian - Books

It is high time we embraced it.

The Guardian - Opinion

And it is high time, residents say.

The New York Times

It is high time they were.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is high time" to convey a sense of urgency or mild frustration that something hasn't happened sooner. It's effective in persuasive writing and assertive communication.

Common error

After "it is high time", use the past subjunctive (e.g., "it is high time we went") or the infinitive (e.g., "it is high time to go"), not the present tense (e.g., avoid "it is high time we go").

How to use

Learn how to use "it is high time" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is high time" functions as an idiomatic expression used to convey a sense of urgency or that something should have been done earlier. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent use in English writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is high time" is a versatile phrase used to express that something is overdue and requires immediate attention. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and demonstrates its frequent usage in a variety of contexts, including news, business, and academic writing. While the phrase is generally neutral, the context can make it more formal or professional. When using it, ensure that you follow it with the past subjunctive or an infinitive to maintain grammatical correctness. Consider alternatives like "it's about time" or "the time is ripe" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's about time

Emphasizes that something should have happened sooner; similar level of urgency.

it's time now

Directly states that the moment for action has arrived.

the time is ripe

Suggests conditions are now ideal for something to occur or begin.

it is overdue

Highlights that something should have already been done.

the moment has come

Implies a significant or decisive time for action.

it's imperative now

Indicates an urgent necessity for immediate action.

we should act now

A call to immediate action, emphasizing responsibility.

the hour is late

Warns that time is running out to take action.

the deadline is here

Focuses on the nearness of a concluding point for action.

it's crucial now

Stresses the critical importance of acting in the present.

FAQs

How do I use "it is high time" in a sentence?

You can use "it is high time" to express that something should have been done a long time ago and needs immediate attention. For example, "It is high time we addressed the issue of climate change."

What phrases are similar to "it is high time"?

Alternatives include "it's about time", "it's time now", or "the time is ripe" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it is high time to"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. You can follow "it is high time" with an infinitive, like in the sentence "It is high time to take action."

What's the difference between "it is high time" and "it is time"?

"It is high time" emphasizes that something is overdue and should have happened sooner, whereas "it is time" simply indicates that the moment is appropriate or necessary.