past times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "past times" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to events, people, or things that existed or happened in the past. Example: In the book, the author recounts the customs and traditions of past times, giving readers a glimpse into a bygone era.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It is a remembrance of the good in past times".

The New York Times

This visionary of past times deserves a historical context of his own.

Independent

Her favorite past times were painting, playing bridge, gardening, sailing, and traveling.

The New York Times

For some there will be memories of past times or special occasions.

Independent

"In past times, stations like this tried to be all things to all people," he said.

The New York Times

They also acknowledged difficulty in relating today's home run developments to past times.

The New York Times - Sports

In past times, a mourning wardrobe was de rigueur for the fashionable bereaved.

The New York Times

Kerry James Marshall, "Past Times," 1997: Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, McCormick Place Art Collection.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The rest of the animal kingdom do not indulge in these pleasing past-times which shows, of course, that man is the apex of creation.

The New York Times

In the age of eyes glued to phones, trivia is one of my favorite past-times.

TechCrunch

They are thereby forced to seek comfort in alcohol and shallow past-times, and to neglect their own education and that of their children (LFC 201 204).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "past times", consider the specific era or period you are referencing to provide context and clarity. For instance, specify 'past times' of the 1920s versus 'past times' of the Roman Empire.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "past times" (referring to previous eras) with "pass times" (hobbies or activities). Ensure you are using the correct phrase based on your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "past times" primarily functions as a noun phrase, referring to a period or era in the past. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. Examples show it modifying other nouns, such as 'memories of past times'.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "past times" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that refers to previous eras or periods. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for written English and frequently appears in news, media, and scientific contexts. While its register is generally neutral, it carries a sense of history and reflection. When using this phrase, remember to consider the specific era you're referencing and avoid confusion with "pass times". Consider using alternatives like "historical times" or "old times" depending on your context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

old times

A simpler and more general way to refer to the past.

historical times

Directly relates to recorded history and events.

earlier periods

More formal and neutral, emphasizing a sequence of time.

former days

Highlights a contrast between the past and present.

bygone era

Focuses on a specific period characterized by distinct features.

times gone by

Emphasizes the passage of time and its effects.

olden days

Evokes a sense of nostalgia and a more distant past.

ancient times

Refers specifically to the distant past, often pre-modern era.

previous epochs

Emphasizes long spans of time and historical significance.

days of yore

Conveys a sense of folklore and ancient history.

FAQs

How can I use "past times" in a sentence?

You can use "past times" to refer to a period in the past. For example, "The museum exhibit showcased artifacts from "past times"."

What's a good substitute for "past times"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "past times" include "old times", "bygone era", or "historical times".

Is "past times" formal or informal?

"Past times" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal writing might opt for phrases like "earlier periods" or "historical times".

What is the difference between "past times" and "pass times"?

"Past times" refers to previous eras or periods, while "pass times" (or more commonly, "pastime") refers to hobbies or recreational activities.