it takes time

USAGE SUMMARY

'it takes time' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to indicate that something takes a long time or requires patience. For example: "Building a successful business is hard work - it takes time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In reality, "it takes time," he said.

The New York Times

It takes time," says Julian Mash, its boss.

The Economist

It takes time".Perhaps.Perhaps

The Economist

But it takes time.

The New York Times

And it takes time".

The New York Times - Sports

It takes time early on".

Independent

"It takes time," Rodriguez said.

The New York Times - Sports

With anything, it takes time.

The New York Times - Sports

It takes time -- and work.

The New York Times

M.H.: "It takes time".

The New Yorker

So it takes time".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it takes time", consider specifying what else is required, such as effort, resources, or specific actions, to provide a more complete picture of the process.

Common error

Avoid using "it takes time" as an excuse for lack of progress or accountability. Always pair it with clear steps and milestones to demonstrate active work towards the goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it takes time" functions as a statement of fact, indicating that a certain amount of duration is necessary for a particular process or outcome. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

22%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it takes time" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile phrase used to convey that something requires a certain duration to develop or achieve. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across diverse contexts. It serves primarily to manage expectations, offer reassurance, and highlight the need for patience. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, it's helpful to also specify what else is needed – effort, resources, specific actions – to provide a complete picture of the process. Remember that while “it takes time”, progress should still be measurable and accountable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it requires patience

This alternative emphasizes the need for patience as a key element of the time required.

it demands perseverance

This highlights the necessity of sustained effort over a period.

it's a lengthy process

This emphasizes the extended duration of the activity.

it needs duration

This emphasizes the importance of duration for completion or success.

it's not an overnight thing

This suggests the outcome isn't immediate or quickly achieved.

it unfolds gradually

This emphasizes the step-by-step manner in which something progresses.

it necessitates a while

This indicates a significant period is essential.

it is a marathon, not a sprint

This emphasizes the long-term nature and endurance required.

it calls for some waiting

This focuses on the waiting period involved.

it won't happen instantly

This suggests that achieving a result is not immediate.

FAQs

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

The phrase "it takes time" is commonly used to express that a process, skill, or goal requires a significant duration to develop or achieve. For instance, "Learning a new language "it takes time" and consistent practice".

What are some alternatives to "it takes time"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives such as "it requires patience", "it's a process", or "it needs duration" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it takes time"?

Yes, the phrase "it takes time" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. It follows standard subject-verb agreement and is widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts.

What's the difference between "it takes time" and "it will take time"?

"It takes time" is often used as a general statement about a particular process or skill. "It will take time" refers to a specific instance or project in the future. For example, "Learning to play the piano "it takes time"" (general) versus "Finishing this project "it will take time"" (specific).