like clockwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like clockwork" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe something that is happening or occurring in a regular, predictable, and consistent manner. For example: "She does her daily chores like clockwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A time comes when the groups that like clockwork appear around the shed have stopped appearing like clockwork around the shed.

The New Yorker

Every day, like clockwork.

The New Yorker

"Like clockwork," he said.

The New York Times

Disaster, like clockwork, is averted.

The New York Times

It worked like clockwork".

The Guardian - Money

Transformations occur like clockwork.

The New York Times - Arts

It runs like clockwork.

The New York Times

It's like clockwork".

The Guardian

"Haiti will be facing storms like clockwork.

The New York Times

It's like clockwork with you people.

The New Yorker

Dinnertime, by contrast, comes around like clockwork.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like clockwork" to emphasize the predictable and reliable nature of an event or process. It adds a sense of dependability and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "like clockwork" when describing situations that should be spontaneous or unpredictable. The phrase implies a planned and regular occurrence, which can be inappropriate in certain contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like clockwork" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. It indicates that something happens regularly, predictably, and reliably. Ludwig examples confirm this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like clockwork" is a commonly used adverbial phrase that signifies regularity, predictability, and precision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase serves to emphasize the dependable nature of an action or event. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, it’s essential to use it appropriately, avoiding contexts that require spontaneity. Alternatives such as "with unfailing consistency" or "with perfect precision" can provide similar meanings with varying degrees of formality. In summary, "like clockwork" is a versatile and reliable phrase for conveying consistent and expected performance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with dependable regularity

This alternative combines reliability and consistent timing, highlighting the predictable nature of something happening "like clockwork".

with unfailing consistency

This alternative stresses the reliability and dependability of an action, synonymous with the steadfast nature of "like clockwork".

like a Swiss watch

This phrase draws a comparison to a high-quality, precise timepiece, akin to the reliable execution implied by "like clockwork".

with great regularity

This alternative focuses on the consistent timing of an event, similar to "like clockwork" but emphasizes the consistent intervals.

like a well-oiled machine

This phrase emphasizes the smooth and efficient operation of something, similar to the dependable performance implied by "like clockwork".

with perfect precision

This phrase highlights the accuracy and exactness of an action, mirroring the dependable nature of "like clockwork".

as regular as sunrise

This alternative uses a simile to convey the dependability of an event, similar to "like clockwork" but with more emphasis on natural predictability.

on a regular basis

This alternative underscores the routine nature of an event, akin to "like clockwork" but with less emphasis on flawless execution.

with rhythmic precision

This option highlights the timed precision of an event, similar to the mechanical aspect of "like clockwork".

according to schedule

This alternative emphasizes the adherence to a set timetable, resembling the expected timing of "like clockwork".

FAQs

How can I use "like clockwork" in a sentence?

You can use "like clockwork" to describe something that happens regularly and predictably. For example, "The train arrives on time, "like clockwork"".

What's a synonym for "like clockwork"?

Alternatives to "like clockwork" include "with great regularity", "with perfect precision", or "with unfailing consistency".

Is it appropriate to use "like clockwork" in formal writing?

Yes, "like clockwork" is generally acceptable in formal writing, especially when emphasizing reliability and precision. However, consider alternatives such as "with great regularity" for a more formal tone.

What does it mean when something happens "like clockwork"?

When something happens "like clockwork", it means it occurs regularly, predictably, and without any issues, similar to the consistent operation of a clock.