look at the time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look at the time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to draw attention to the current time, often implying that it is late or that time is running out. Example: "I just realized how late it is; look at the time!"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

'Look at the time.

The New Yorker

God, look at the time!

The New York Times

Look at the time he lived.

The Guardian - Sport

Oh, but look at the time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Well, let's in fact look at the time domain.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"I don't even look at the time frame.

The New York Times - Sports

It's nice not to look at the time every minute.

The New York Times

"Look at the time," she sang as the set began.

The New York Times - Arts

"Look at the time," Audie said, twisting his wrist.

The New Yorker

That was kind of the chic look at the time.

The New Yorker

A closer look at the time would have rendered such conclusions questionable at best.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look at the time" when you want to express surprise or urgency regarding the current time, often as a cue to depart or change activities.

Common error

Avoid using "look at the time" in situations that require a neutral or formal statement of time. It is generally inappropriate for reports or announcements where objectivity is crucial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look at the time" primarily functions as an exclamatory phrase used to draw attention to the current time. According to Ludwig AI, it is often used to express surprise, concern, or a need to conclude a conversation or activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

19%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "look at the time" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to draw attention to the current time. Ludwig AI affirms its usability in written English. It's often employed to express surprise, urgency, or a need to conclude an activity or conversation, making it suitable for informal and neutral contexts. While versatile, it is generally best to avoid in situations requiring formality. Related phrases include "check the time" and "see what time it is", each carrying slight differences in tone. When used, "look at the time" serves as a polite cue to transition or depart, and is used across a range of sources from news media to academic materials.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Check the time

This alternative is a direct and simple way to ask someone to verify the current time, removing the element of surprise or urgency.

See what time it is

This alternative is similar to "check the time" but carries a slightly more casual tone.

Realize how late it is

This alternative emphasizes the speaker's realization that the time is later than expected.

Note the hour

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the act of observing the time.

Observe the time

This alternative is a more formal and deliberate way of saying "look at the time".

Take note of the time

Similar to "observe the time", this alternative highlights the act of paying attention to the current time.

Be mindful of the hour

This alternative emphasizes the importance of being aware of the current time, often suggesting a need to adhere to a schedule.

Pay attention to the clock

This alternative shifts the focus to the physical device displaying the time, rather than the abstract concept of time itself.

Consider the hour

This alternative suggests a need to think about the current time and its implications.

How time flies

This is an idiomatic expression that emphasizes how quickly time has passed.

FAQs

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

You can use "look at the time" to express surprise or urgency about the current time. For example, "Look at the time! We're going to be late!"

What can I say instead of "look at the time"?

Alternatives include "check the time", "see what time it is", or "note the hour", depending on the context and desired tone.

Is it appropriate to use "look at the time" in formal writing?

No, "look at the time" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to state the time directly or use a more neutral phrase.

What's the difference between "look at the time" and "what time is it"?

"Look at the time" is often used as an exclamation, implying surprise or urgency, whereas "what time is it" is a direct question seeking information about the current time.