recent times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "recent times" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a period of time in recent history, for example: "In recent times, there has been an increase in public distrust of the government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Recent times have borne it out.

The Economist

Not in recent times, anyway.

The Guardian - Music

This too is unprecedented in recent times.

Yale University

Recent times suggest the onslaught of AIDS.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Soviet Jewish veterans in more recent times.

Harvard University

The nearest likeness from recent times?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In recent times, two stood out.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In recent times, he also struggled financially.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Not in recent times," he said.

The New York Times

In recent times, farming has been unproductive.

The New York Times

It's a popular refrain in recent times.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "recent times". It's suitable for discussing trends, changes, or events that have occurred within a comprehensible recent timeframe.

Common error

While "recent times" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider synonyms like "in recent years", "currently", or "lately" to add variety and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "recent times" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying the time frame in which an action or event occurs. It is commonly used to set the temporal context for observations or statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "recent times" correctly indicates a period in the relatively near past, as validated by Ludwig AI. It is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and scientific publications. While grammatically sound and commonly employed, it's essential to use it thoughtfully. Consider related phrases like "in recent years" or "lately" for variety. Although versatile, its neutrality does not fit all the registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In recent years

Focuses specifically on the last few years, implying a shorter timeframe than "recent times".

In current times

Similar to "in the present day", highlighting the ongoing era.

In the present day

Emphasizes the current period, potentially including the immediate past leading up to it.

In recent history

Emphasizes the historical aspect of the recent past.

Lately

A more informal way to indicate a period not long ago.

These days

An informal way to speak about the present period.

Of late

A slightly more formal and less common synonym for "lately".

In the current climate

Highlights the present conditions or atmosphere, often used in business or political contexts.

In contemporary society

Broader scope that focuses on society/community that is currently living/evolving.

In modern times

A broader phrase referring to the period after the Middle Ages or the Industrial Revolution.

FAQs

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

You can use "recent times" to refer to the period not long ago. For example: "In "recent times", there has been an increase in technological advancements."

What are some alternatives to "recent times"?

Some alternatives include "in recent years", "lately", or "in the present day", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in the recent times"?

While understandable, "in "recent times"" is the more standard and grammatically preferred phrasing.

What is the difference between "recent times" and "modern times"?

"Recent times" refers to a shorter, more immediate timeframe, while "modern times" encompasses a broader historical period, generally from the Industrial Revolution onward.