make every second count

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make every second count" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used as a motivating phrase to remind someone that time is limited and that they should strive to make the most of it. For example, "As you start a new job, remember to make every second count and take every opportunity you can to learn and grow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

When you solve the meta-puzzle based on the re-solved 2010 puzzles, you get the answer LOOK AROUND ALL PERIODS / AND FILL YOUR CALENDARS / MAKE EVERY SECOND COUNT.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Galison explains the manner in which Poincare and Einstein revised Newtonian principles and helped us make every second count".

The New York Times

They have 60 seconds to tell the whole story in each of the commercials and he does his best to make every second count.

The New Yorker

Research has shown that it can take as many as 20 further interactions to change someone's first opinion so it's vital that you make every second count.

The Guardian

You've got to make every second count if you want to make their thumb stop next time they see one of your videos.

TechCrunch

Here today and gone tomorrow, so make every second count!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Since you will only be working out 10 minutes a day, make every second counts.

WikiHow

Elizabeth Price makes every second count in her 20-minute, high-definition video.

The Guardian - Arts

Newport made every second count as Antoine Semenyo fired home a 98th-minute winner in a 2-1 victoverover Stevenage.

The Guardian - Sport

You'll be busy, but not frantic, the whole time, and rewarded with the satisfaction that you made every second count.

The New York Times - Food

Women break out calendars, balance checkbooks, distribute snacks -- they're organized, he has noticed, and part of being organized is making every second count.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "make every second count", consider the context and whether a more specific or nuanced expression might be more impactful. For example, in a sports context, "seize the moment" might be more fitting.

Common error

While "make every second count" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very casual conversation. Simpler expressions like "let's hurry" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make every second count" functions as an imperative encouraging efficient use of time. Ludwig examples show its usage in diverse situations, from solving puzzles under time constraints to seizing opportunities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make every second count" serves as a powerful reminder to use time effectively. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse contexts, including news, academic writing, and general advice. Its primary function is to motivate action and convey a sense of urgency. While versatile, users should be mindful of the context and opt for more nuanced expressions when appropriate. Related phrases include "maximize every moment" and "seize every opportunity". By understanding its grammatical function and typical contexts, writers can effectively employ "make every second count" to encourage proactive and efficient behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maximize every moment

Focuses on maximizing the value of each moment rather than just each second.

value every second

Focuses on appreciating the worth of each second.

make the most of your time

General phrase about utilizing time well, without specifying seconds.

seize every opportunity

Emphasizes taking advantage of chances as they arise, connecting time with opportunity.

use your time wisely

Recommends using time with careful judgment and planning.

don't waste a moment

A negative framing, emphasizing the avoidance of wasting time.

make good use of your time

Suggests using time for productive purposes.

live each day to the fullest

Broader in scope, focusing on making the most of an entire day.

get the most out of every day

Similar to living each day to the fullest but focuses on tangible results.

cherish every instant

Highlights the emotional value of moments, suggesting appreciation.

FAQs

How can I use "make every second count" in a sentence?

You can use "make every second count" to emphasize the importance of time in a given situation. For example: "With the deadline approaching, we need to "make every second count"."

What is a more formal alternative to "make every second count"?

A more formal alternative could be "optimize every moment" or "maximize the utilization of time". These phrases are better suited for professional or academic settings.

Is it always appropriate to say "make every second count"?

While generally acceptable, "make every second count" might sound overly dramatic in very casual or relaxed situations. Consider the tone and context before using it.

What does it mean to "make every second count"?

To "make every second count" means to use your time as efficiently and effectively as possible, ensuring that you don't waste any opportunity or moment.