it is only time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is only time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to convey the idea that time is the only factor or element that matters in a given situation. Example: "In the end, it is only time that will reveal the true outcome of our efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

If Permanent TSB's blandishments work, then surely it is only time before Bank of Ireland and Allied Irish Banks follow.

The Guardian - Business

It is only time to get involved with living organisms such as chlorophyll.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It's only time.

Independent

It's only time and a number," he says.

The Guardian - Film

It's only time before performance gets better.

TechCrunch

"From my previous films, I've seen that it's only time that will tell".

Vice

"It is only half-time".

Independent

It is only to have time to see your friends".

The New Yorker

It is only the second time they've met.

Los Angeles Times

It is only a matter of time.

The New York Times

It's only part time.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is only time" to suggest that the outcome of a situation is dependent on the passage of time, implying a degree of certainty or inevitability.

Common error

Avoid using "it is only time" when you want to express uncertainty or possibility. This phrase suggests that the outcome is preordained and will be revealed as time passes, not that it might happen.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the temporal aspect of an event or situation. Ludwig examples demonstrate it emphasizes the inevitability of an outcome based on the passage of time. Ludwig AI confirms this.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is only time" is a grammatically sound expression used to convey that the unfolding of events is primarily a function of time. While Ludwig identifies it as correct, its usage is relatively rare. Ludwig's examples highlight its presence in News & Media and Science contexts, signifying a neutral register. Consider alternatives like "it is just a matter of time" or "time will tell" based on the nuance you wish to convey. Use "it is only time" to signal certainty in the eventual outcome as time passes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's just a matter of time

Emphasizes the inevitability of an event occurring at some point in the future.

time will tell

Indicates that the outcome will be revealed by the passage of time.

the future will show

Similar to "time will tell", but with a slightly more formal tone.

eventually

A single word expressing that something will happen at a later time.

in due course

Suggests that something will happen at the appropriate time, without being rushed.

sooner or later

Implies that something is certain to happen, though the exact timing is uncertain.

the fullness of time

A more poetic or formal way of saying "eventually" or "in due course".

with the passage of time

Highlights the role of time in bringing about a change or revelation.

as time goes by

Similar to "with the passage of time", focusing on the continuous flow of time.

in the long run

Focuses on the ultimate outcome over a prolonged period.

FAQs

What does "it is only time" mean?

The phrase "it is only time" implies that the outcome of a situation is dependent on the passage of time and is somewhat inevitable. It suggests that the unfolding of events is primarily a function of time.

When is it appropriate to use "it is only time"?

Use "it is only time" when you want to convey that the future development or resolution of something hinges primarily on the passage of time, and there is a strong sense of certainty. For instance, "If Permanent TSB's blandishments work, then surely "it is only time" before Bank of Ireland and Allied Irish Banks follow".

What are some alternatives to "it is only time"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it is just a matter of time", "time will tell", or "eventually". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "it is only time" differ from "time will tell"?

"It is only time" suggests a stronger sense of inevitability; the implication is that the outcome is already determined and will simply be revealed. "Time will tell", on the other hand, is more neutral, simply indicating that the future will provide the answer without necessarily implying certainty.