put in the time

USAGE SUMMARY

"put in the time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that someone has worked hard or devoted a lot of effort and time to a task or project. For example, "If you want to be successful, you have to be willing to put in the time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"We know the work we put in, the time, the sweat, the blood, the tears.

The New York Times - Sports

I've put in the time.

The Guardian - Opinion

I have not put in the time.

The Guardian

But he put in the time.

The New York Times - Food

I still put in the time.

The New York Times - Sports

Now he's glad he put in the time.

The New York Times

Like everything else, you have to put in the time".

The New Yorker

You have to put in the time, though.

The Guardian - Arts

Then you may be much more willing to put in the time and effort.

The New York Times

Mr. Bridges has put in the time, including as a nominee.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Your idea can become a reality if you put in the time, effort, and persevere.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put in the time" to emphasize the importance of consistent effort over a period for achieving a goal. For example, "Success in learning a new language requires that you "put in the time" and practice regularly."

Common error

Avoid using "put in the time" when referring to a one-time effort. The phrase suggests sustained effort over a duration, not a singular event. For example, it's better to say "I dedicated effort to fixing the issue" instead of "I "put in the time" to fix it" if it was a quick fix.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put in the time" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase that signifies dedicating a significant amount of effort and duration to a task or activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common expression to emphasize the importance of consistent hard work.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Wiki

20%

Huffington Post

17%

Less common in

The New Yorker

3%

Forbes

1%

Los Angeles Times

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "put in the time" is a commonly used idiomatic verb phrase that emphasizes the importance of consistent effort and dedication over a sustained period. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely understood. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, its register leans towards neutral, making it suitable for both informal and professional contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the need for prolonged effort rather than a one-time action. Remember that consistent dedication, as suggested by the phrase, is often the key to achieving success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

invest the necessary hours

Focuses on the specific allocation of hours needed for a task.

dedicate sufficient effort

Highlights the commitment of effort rather than just time.

devote the required energy

Emphasizes the energy investment needed.

apply oneself diligently

Focuses on the consistent and careful application of effort.

commit wholeheartedly

Stresses the completeness and sincerity of the commitment.

make the necessary investment

Highlights the investment aspect, implying a return.

go the extra mile

Implies exceeding expectations in effort and time.

burn the midnight oil

Refers to working late into the night, specifically.

plow through

Implies pushing through a task with sustained effort.

give it your all

Emphasizes total effort and dedication.

FAQs

How can I use "put in the time" in a sentence?

Use "put in the time" to emphasize that consistent effort is necessary to achieve a goal. For example: "If you "put in the time" studying, you'll pass the exam."

What's an alternative to saying "put in the time"?

Alternatives include "dedicate sufficient effort", "invest the necessary hours", or "devote the required energy", all emphasizing dedication to a task.

Is it correct to say "put in the work" instead of "put in the time"?

While both are acceptable, "put in the work" focuses more on the effort exerted, whereas "put in the time" emphasizes the duration of that effort. Depending on the context, one may be more appropriate than the other.

When is it not appropriate to use "put in the time"?

It's not ideal to use "put in the time" when describing a one-off activity or task that doesn't require sustained effort over a period. In such cases, phrases like "made an effort" or "dedicated effort" might be more suitable.