look at the clock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look at the clock" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used as a command or request for someone to direct their attention to the clock. Here is an example of a sentence using this phrase: "Can you please look at the clock and tell me what time it is?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Look at the clock".

The New York Times

Don't look at the clock.

The New Yorker

But look at the clock!

The New York Times - Books

"Well, look at the clock!

The New Yorker

She wanted to look at the clock.

The New Yorker

"I sneaked a look at the clock.

The New York Times - Sports

We both look at the clock.

The Guardian

"Mr. Danza, look at the clock," she snaps.

The New York Times - Arts

I tried not to look at the clock too often.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

For example, when you wake up each morning, you look at the clock--then you pee.

HuffPost

Everitt looked at the clock.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "look at the clock" in writing, ensure the context makes it clear whether it's a literal instruction or a metaphorical suggestion to be mindful of time.

Common error

Avoid repetitive use of "look at the clock" to indicate the passage of time. Instead, vary your descriptions with sensory details or character thoughts to create a more immersive experience for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look at the clock" primarily functions as an imperative, directing someone to perform the action of observing a clock. Ludwig shows its common usage in direct commands and narrative descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

22%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

13%

HuffPost

7%

Forbes

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "look at the clock" is a grammatically correct imperative commonly used to direct someone's attention to the time. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. While its register is generally neutral, its frequency is high across various contexts, especially in news, wiki and academic sources. To avoid repetition in writing, consider alternatives such as "check the time" or "observe the time". Overall, it's a reliable and versatile phrase with a clear and direct meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Check the time

This is a direct and simple alternative, focusing on the act of verifying the current time.

See what time it is

Similar to "check the time", but with a slightly more inquisitive tone.

Observe the time

A more formal way of asking someone to check the time.

Pay attention to the clock

Emphasizes the importance of being aware of the time.

Note the hour

A more formal and deliberate way of saying to observe the time.

Take note of the time

Implies a need to remember or record the time.

Glance at the timepiece

This alternative uses more descriptive language, specifying a "timepiece".

What time does the clock show?

This is a question format of directing attention to the clock.

Tell me the time

Asks someone to verbally communicate what time it is.

Keep track of time

Focuses on the continuous monitoring of time, rather than a single instance.

FAQs

How can I use "look at the clock" in a sentence?

You can use "look at the clock" to instruct someone to check the time, as in "Please, "look at the clock" and tell me when the meeting starts." It's a straightforward way to direct attention to the time.

What's a more formal way to say "look at the clock"?

A more formal alternative would be "Observe the time" or "Note the hour". These phrases are less direct and more suited for professional or academic contexts.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "look at the clock"?

The phrase "look at the clock" is grammatically correct and widely accepted. However, overuse or reliance on it can make writing feel repetitive, so vary your language with alternatives such as "check the time" or "see what time it is".

What does it mean when someone says "Don't look at the clock"?

When someone says "Don't look at the clock", it often implies they want you to avoid fixating on the passage of time, usually because the situation is tedious or stressful. It's a way of saying, try to distract yourself and not focus on how long something is taking.