out of time

USAGE SUMMARY

'out of time' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea that someone is running out of time or the deadline has passed. For example: "We have to finish this project by the end of the day, but we're already out of time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The different clocks ticked out of time.

The New Yorker

Running out of time, again.

Huffington Post

We're out of time.

The New York Times - Arts

He was out of time.

The New Yorker

I'm running out of time.

The New York Times

"We're running out of time.

The New York Times

I run out of time.

The New York Times - Magazine

They run out of time.

The New York Times

We are out of time.

The New York Times

We can't run out of time.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

You may run out of call time!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "out of time" when you want to clearly communicate that a deadline has passed or that there is no time remaining to complete a task. For example, "The project is due tomorrow, and we're already out of time."

Common error

Avoid using "out of time" in situations where a task can still be completed with extra effort or resources. Instead, reserve it for scenarios where the opportunity to act has genuinely expired. For example, instead of saying "We're out of time to prepare for the meeting", consider saying "We're short on time to prepare for the meeting" if additional preparation is still possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of time" primarily functions as a complement or adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of having no time remaining. Ludwig shows examples where the expression acts as a predicate adjective, describing a subject's condition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

33%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

9%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "out of time" is a common prepositional phrase used to indicate that no time remains for a task or action. Ludwig AI identifies it as a correct and usable phrase in English, with examples spanning news, academic, and general contexts. The phrase functions primarily as a complement or adjective phrase, conveying urgency or finality. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse writing styles. Alternatives include phrases like "time is up" or "no time left", each with slightly different nuances. When using "out of time", be mindful of the contextual appropriateness and avoid using it when opportunities for action still exist.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time is up

Emphasizes the end of an allotted time period.

no time left

Directly states the absence of remaining time.

time has run out

Indicates the complete exhaustion of the allocated time.

deadline expired

Specifically refers to the passing of a final submission date.

behind schedule

Focuses on not meeting the established timeline.

short on time

Indicates having an insufficient amount of time.

running late

Highlights tardiness or being behind schedule.

pressed for time

Highlights the feeling of urgency and limited time availability.

against the clock

Highlights the need to hurry to finish something before a deadline.

time is fleeting

Emphasizes the rapid passage of time and its limited nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "out of time" to express that a deadline has passed or that there is no more time to complete something. For example: "We are "running out of time" to submit our proposal." or "Unfortunately, we're "out of time" for questions."

What phrases are similar to "out of time"?

Several phrases convey a similar meaning to "out of time", including "time is up", "no time left", and "time has run out". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "running out of time" or "out of time"?

"Running out of time" suggests that time is dwindling but not completely gone, while "out of time" indicates that there is no time left at all. The choice depends on the specific situation. If you are "running late" you can still be "behind schedule", so you are "running out of time" but it is not ended yet.

Can "out of time" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "out of time" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various professional and academic contexts as well as in "news and media", making it versatile for diverse writing needs.