on time

USAGE SUMMARY

"on time" is a correct and useful phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe something that happens at the expected or appointed hour, or before the expected time. For example, "We arrived at the meeting on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It even ends on time.

BBC

Morning wakens on time.

The New Yorker

Right on time.

The New York Times

We arrived on time.

The New York Times - Travel

It's on time.

The New York Times

Leave work on time.

Independent

It'll finish on time.

The New York Times

Just on time.

The New Yorker

"He's on time.

The New York Times - Sports

Always be on time.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

On-time flights?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing reliability and dependability, use "on time" to assure your audience of punctuality, such as "Our deliveries are always on time".

Common error

Avoid using "in time" when you mean "on time". "In time" means eventually or with enough time, whereas "on time" means punctual or as scheduled.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on time" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to indicate that an action occurs as scheduled or punctually. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered grammatically correct. For example, "The train arrived on time."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

46%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on time" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate punctuality and adherence to schedules. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is a correct and useful expression. Its frequency across diverse contexts, ranging from news reports to everyday conversations, underscores its significance in clear and effective communication. While simple, understanding its nuances, such as the distinction between "on time" and "in time", ensures precise and impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

punctually

Focuses on the manner of being on time, highlighting the exactness.

promptly

Emphasizes immediacy and readiness, slightly different from just being on time.

at the appointed time

More formal, specifying that a pre-arranged time was met.

as scheduled

Highlights adherence to a pre-determined timetable.

in a timely manner

Focuses on the appropriateness of the timing, not just punctuality.

not late

Simple negation of lateness, less emphasis on positive punctuality.

on schedule

Similar to "on time" but typically used for processes or projects.

right on the dot

Emphasizes arriving at the precise moment.

before the deadline

Focuses on completing something ahead of the cut-off time.

within the time limit

Indicates completion or arrival before the maximum allowed time.

FAQs

How can I use "on time" in a sentence?

You can use "on time" to describe arriving or completing something as scheduled. For example, "The train arrived "on time"" or "Please submit your assignments "on time"".

What is the difference between "in time" and "on time"?

"On time" means punctual or according to schedule, while "in time" means eventually or with sufficient time. For example, "We arrived "on time" for the meeting", versus "We arrived "in time" to catch the train".

Are there other ways to say "on time"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "punctually", "promptly", or "as scheduled" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "right on time"?

Yes, "right on time" is an idiomatic expression that means exactly "on time", emphasizing precision.