it is of the essence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is of the essence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that something is crucial or essential to the matter at hand. Example: "In this contract, timely delivery is of the essence; any delay may result in penalties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Similarly, any act of will present in an intellectual substance also is available to consciousness, because it is of the essence of such a substance to perceive its own states (11 343).

SEP

It is of the essence of legal powers that they have limits.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the contrary, it is of the essence of a hero to be unique and therefore inimitable".

The New York Times - Sports

It is of the essence of such gestures that they appear futile, yet have the power to redeem humanity.

The New York Times

It is of the essence of free market theory that decision-makers follow their personal self-interest in coming to a decision.

Independent

Later, however, he saw that it is of the essence of colour to require cooperation between the physical behaviour of light and the human perceptual apparatus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"We're buying time, and it's of the essence," Mr. Scheu said.

The New York Times

I just believe that it's of the essence for people to understand as a Catholic you just cannot hold these beliefs".

The New York Times - Sports

Speed, it seems, is of the essence for America.

MIT Technology Review

For doctors combating it, time is of the essence.

The New York Times - Health

If it decides trimness is of the essence, feature models with breasts proportional to their hips.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is of the essence" in legal or formal documents, ensure the context clearly defines what specific aspect is crucial to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is of the essence" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "it's crucial" or "it's important" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is of the essence" functions as a predicate adjective, emphasizing the crucial or fundamental nature of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, it denotes something indispensable. The phrase often introduces a critical condition or requirement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is of the essence" is a powerful way to emphasize the crucial importance of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies indispensability and urgency. While grammatically correct and frequently found in formal contexts such as legal, business, and academic writing, it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding overly pretentious in informal settings. Consider simpler alternatives like "it is crucial" or "it is vital" when a less formal tone is desired. Remember to clearly define what specific aspect is essential when using this phrase to prevent any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is crucial

Emphasizes importance but is slightly less formal.

it is vital

Similar in meaning but highlights the indispensable nature of something.

it is essential

Focuses on the fundamental necessity of something.

it is imperative

Indicates an urgent need or requirement.

it is paramount

Highlights the supreme importance of something.

it is indispensable

Stresses that something is absolutely necessary.

it is critical

Emphasizes the decisive importance of something.

it is fundamental

Focuses on the basic and necessary nature of something.

it is key

Highlights that something is a central or decisive element.

it is significant

Indicates the importance or consequence of something.

FAQs

How can I use "it is of the essence" in a sentence?

Use "it is of the essence" to emphasize the critical importance or necessity of something in a formal or legal context. For example, "In this contract, timely delivery "is crucial"; any delay may result in penalties".

What phrases are similar to "it is of the essence"?

Alternatives include "it is crucial", "it is vital", or "it is essential". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it is of the essence" formal or informal?

"It is of the essence" is generally considered a formal phrase and is best suited for legal, business, or academic writing. Simpler alternatives are more appropriate for informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "it is of the essence"?

Use "it is of the essence" when you need to strongly emphasize that a particular aspect is indispensable or absolutely necessary for a desired outcome, especially in situations involving contracts, deadlines, or critical processes.