not this time

USAGE SUMMARY

"not this time" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it when you are declining an offer or situation. For example: "I usually go out for dinner on Fridays, but not this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Not this time, in this summer.

BBC

Not this time, Len, not this time.

Independent

Not this time around.

The New York Times

Not this time, though.

The New Yorker

But not this time.

The New York Times - Sports

No, not this time!

The New York Times

Not this time, apparently.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Didn't this time".

The Guardian

Not so this time.

The New York Times - Arts

Not at this time.

The New Yorker

Not this time, Messi.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not this time", ensure the context clearly implies a contrast with previous or expected outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "not this time" without establishing a clear reference point. For example, instead of just saying "Not this time", provide context like "We lost last week, but not this time" to make the meaning clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not this time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by indicating a specific condition or exception. It provides temporal context, contrasting the current situation with previous instances. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not this time" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to indicate a deviation from a previous or expected outcome. According to Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable expression. It functions as an adverbial phrase with a neutral register, making it appropriate for a variety of contexts, especially in news and media. To ensure clarity, always provide sufficient context when using this phrase. As confirmed by Ludwig's analysis, it's a versatile expression for politely declining, setting exceptions, or noting changes in circumstance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it won't happen this time

Explicitly states that something will not occur in the current instance, emphasizing the lack of success.

not on this occasion

Formal alternative emphasizing a specific event or instance.

not in this instance

Similar to "not on this occasion", but slightly more specific to a situation.

not now

Shorter and more direct, indicating that something will not happen at the present moment.

not today

Specifies that something will not occur on the current day.

that won't occur now

Formal phrase meaning something won't happen at the present moment.

not happening

Informal and emphatic way of saying something will not occur.

not a chance

Expresses strong disbelief or denial that something will happen.

no way

Similar to "not a chance", conveying strong negation.

this isn't the time

Indicates that the present moment is unsuitable for something to occur.

FAQs

How can I use "not this time" in a sentence?

You can use "not this time" to indicate a change in outcome or circumstance compared to a previous situation. For example, "I usually go out on Fridays, but "not this time" because I have to work".

What does "not this time" mean?

"Not this time" means that something that happened before, or was expected to happen, will not occur on this particular occasion.

What are some alternatives to "not this time"?

Alternatives include "not on this occasion", "not in this instance", or simply "not now", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "not this time"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and a common idiomatic expression. Ludwig AI also confirms its correctness.