more appropriate time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more appropriate time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting a time that is better suited for a particular action or event. Example: "Let's discuss this matter at a more appropriate time when everyone can be present."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We look forward to having a very private discussion at a more appropriate time.

The New York Times

"The rain couldn't have come at a more appropriate time," she said, still catching her breath.

The New York Times

"A more appropriate time to address a dispute on the bill might have been when he checked out," he said.

The New York Times

Next year's ballot, which will focus on City Council races, is a more appropriate time to raise the idea.

The New York Times

AKRON, Ohio — Vijay Singh could not have chosen a more appropriate time or place to resuscitate his golf game.

The New York Times - Sports

"Shame Is Not the Solution," by Bill Gates (Op-Ed, Feb. 23), couldn't come at a more appropriate time.

The New York Times

"At my age, rest is always good," said Clemens, who intends to talk to Torre and the Yankees' pitching coach, Mel Stottlemyre, at a more appropriate time.

The New York Times - Sports

Fraser said that Duffy's "recognition of "Yazbek's courage in writing about Syria's revolution from the inside could not come at a more appropriate time".

The Guardian - Books

If the work may not be reasonably interrupted at the time requested then a more appropriate time should be arranged with the representative.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Following Angelina Jolie's double mastectomy news there has never been a more appropriate time for celebrities to come out and talk seriously about cancer.

Independent

"A lot of them, from a pure business standpoint, said there were people who wanted to see this music, so let's put it on at a more appropriate time," said Miles Copeland, president of Ark 21.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When postponing a discussion or action, use "more appropriate time" to convey respect for the current context and indicate a willingness to address the matter later.

Common error

Don't use "more appropriate time" as a mere brush-off. Provide a realistic timeframe or condition for rescheduling to maintain trust and transparency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more appropriate time" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun "time". It indicates that a specific time is better suited or more suitable for a particular purpose or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "more appropriate time" is a versatile and commonly used expression that suggests postponing an action or discussion until a more suitable moment. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and readily applicable in various contexts, predominantly in news media, scientific, and academic writing. Alternatives such as "better time" or "suitable moment" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. When using "more appropriate time", ensure you provide a realistic timeframe for rescheduling to avoid any misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

better time

This alternative offers a simpler and more direct way to convey the same meaning, lacking the emphasis on suitability.

suitable moment

This alternative replaces 'time' with 'moment', emphasizing a specific point rather than a duration.

opportune moment

This alternative implies a particularly advantageous or favorable time.

favorable time

This alternative suggests that the time is advantageous for achieving a desired outcome.

convenient time

This alternative focuses on ease and accessibility rather than suitability.

preferable time

This alternative indicates a time that is desired or liked more than another.

more fitting time

This alternative highlights the idea that the time aligns well with the circumstances.

more auspicious time

This alternative implies that the time is favorable for success or good fortune.

more judicious time

This alternative suggests that the timing is carefully considered and wise.

designated time

This alternative replaces suitability with a time that has been formally planned or chosen.

FAQs

When is it suitable to use "more appropriate time" in a sentence?

Use "more appropriate time" when suggesting an alternative moment that is better suited or more convenient for a discussion, action, or event than the present one. It implies that the current time is not ideal for a specific reason.

What are some alternatives to using "more appropriate time"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "better time", "suitable moment", or "opportune moment". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

How does "more appropriate time" differ from "convenient time"?

"More appropriate time" suggests the chosen moment is suitable due to specific circumstances, while "more convenient time" simply implies ease or personal preference. "Appropriate" focuses on situational factors, while "convenient" focuses on personal ease.

Is it correct to say "a more appropriate time" or should I omit the article?

The phrase "more appropriate time" is typically used with the indefinite article "a" (i.e., "a more appropriate time") when referring to a specific instance or suggestion. Omitting the article might sound unnatural in most contexts.