it nearly time

USAGE SUMMARY

'it nearly time' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to tell someone that the time to do something is nearly there. For example: "It nearly time for our meeting - have you finished preparing your presentation?".

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It has been a great run, but I think it's nearly time to sit.

Los Angeles Times

It's nearly time for the BBC's Children in Need telethon, and this time round it has an official app.

The Guardian - Tech

It's nearly time to go.

Independent

Eyes down, then... it's nearly time.

The Guardian - Sport

It was nearly time to sit down.

The New York Times - Food

It's (nearly) time to celebrate.

The Guardian - Tech

9.44pm: Right, it's nearly time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Probably because it was nearly time to go home.

Independent

It's nearly time for Gere's next muppet.

The Guardian - Film

"I think it's nearly time you had a bath".

The New Yorker

It was nearly time to catch a flight home.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it nearly time", consider the tone you want to convey. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but ensure it fits the overall style of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it nearly time" when you actually mean "it's already time". "Nearly" indicates something is approaching, not that it has arrived.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it nearly time" functions as an adverbial phrase, indicating that an event is approaching or imminent. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it nearly time" is a grammatically correct way to express that a particular moment or event is approaching. Although it is infrequent in usage, Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and it can be adapted for various contexts by utilizing similar phrases to refine your intended meaning. Remember to ensure that the tone aligns with the overall writing style, and that it is never mistaken for "it's already time". This analysis provided by Ludwig offers valuable insights into the correct and effective use of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's almost time

Changes "nearly" to "almost", a direct synonym, resulting in a very minor shift in emphasis.

it won't be long now

Switches to a more conversational and reassuring tone, emphasizing the short duration of the remaining time.

the time is approaching

Replaces the original with a more formal and descriptive expression, emphasizing the gradual nature of time passing.

the event is imminent

Highlights the closeness of an event, adding a sense of potential urgency.

the moment is at hand

Uses a slightly more dramatic and figurative expression, suggesting the imminence of a significant event.

the deadline is close

Focuses specifically on the proximity of a deadline, suitable when referring to tasks or projects.

we're getting close

Shifts to a first-person perspective, emphasizing progress and approaching the desired outcome.

the hour is drawing near

Employs a more poetic and evocative phrasing, often used to create a sense of anticipation or foreboding.

the clock is ticking

Uses a metaphorical expression to create a sense of urgency and pressure as time runs out.

the future is nigh

More archaic and dramatic, suggesting the imminent arrival of a significant future event.

FAQs

How can I use "it nearly time" in a sentence?

You can use "it nearly time" to indicate that an event or deadline is approaching. For example, "It nearly time for the meeting, please take your seats."

What's a more formal way to say "it nearly time"?

A more formal alternative to "it nearly time" would be "the time is approaching". This phrase provides a similar meaning in a more elevated style.

What can I say instead of "it nearly time" to sound more casual?

For a more casual tone, you can use phrases like "it's almost time" or "it won't be long now". These alternatives convey the same message in a relaxed manner.

How does "it nearly time" differ from "it's about time"?

"It nearly time" indicates an event is approaching, whereas "it's about time" implies something should have happened sooner. They convey different meanings related to time.