matter of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'matter of time' is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase usually refers to something that will eventually happen in the future, such as: It's just a matter of time before he gets promoted.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Only a matter of time.

The New York Times

"It's a matter of time".

The New York Times

IT WAS only a matter of time.

The New York Times

It was just a matter of time".

The New York Times

It is only a matter of time.

The New York Times

It is just a matter of time.

The New York Times

It was a matter of time.

The New York Times

(Just a matter of time, we insist).

The New York Times

"Its exit was a matter of time".

The New York Times

"But it's a matter of time".

The New York Times

It just was a matter of time.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "matter of time" when you want to express that an event is inevitable and will happen eventually, regardless of specific timing. For example: "It's only a matter of time before they announce the merger."

Common error

Avoid using "matter of time" when you expect something to happen immediately. The phrase implies a period of waiting, however short it may be. Instead, use phrases like "will happen soon" or "will happen instantly" when immediate action is expected.

Linguistic Context

"Matter of time" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a predicate nominative or within an adverbial phrase. It expresses the idea that an event or outcome is inevitable, and its occurrence is only delayed by the passage of time. Ludwig confirms this through numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "matter of time" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express the inevitability of an event. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase, primarily to convey certainty about future outcomes. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Analysis of various sources indicates frequent use in News & Media. When writing, remember that this phrase implies a delay, however short, before the anticipated event occurs. For more formal situations consider alternatives like "inevitable outcome". The usage of "matter of time" is considered correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

certain to happen

Emphasizes the sureness of the event occurring.

bound to occur

Stresses the predetermined nature of the event.

inevitable outcome

Focuses more directly on the certainty of the result.

a foregone conclusion

Signifies a result that is obvious or predictable in advance.

unavoidable consequence

Highlights the inescapable nature of the result.

eventuality

Refers to something that is likely to happen.

just around the corner

Implies the event is imminent.

on the horizon

Suggests the event is approaching but not immediate.

in the cards

Indicates the event is likely or destined to happen.

coming down the pike

Informal way of saying something is coming or approaching.

FAQs

How can I use "matter of time" in a sentence?

You can use "matter of time" to indicate that something is inevitable and will happen at some point. For example, "It's just a matter of time before self-driving cars become commonplace."

What's a more formal way to express "matter of time"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "inevitable outcome" or "unavoidable consequence" as alternatives to "matter of time".

Is it correct to say "a matter of when" instead of "a matter of time"?

While similar, "matter of time" implies inevitability, whereas "matter of when" simply focuses on determining the specific time something will occur. They are both correct but have slightly different connotations.

What can I say instead of "It's just a matter of time"?

Alternatives include "It's "certain to happen"", "It's "bound to occur"", or "It's an "inevitable outcome" depending on the context.