returns on time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "returns on time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing punctuality, particularly in the context of deadlines or schedules. Example: "It is crucial that the project returns on time to meet our client's expectations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Some states lack the staff to process returns on time.

The New York Times

His litmus test: Is this someone who always files income tax returns on time?

The New York Times

Last May, he avoided jail time after failing to file his 2007 tax returns on time.

The New York Times

The recent "nudge" campaign encouraging us to complete our tax returns on time is said to have produced far better results than threats ever did.

Independent

Be warned, however, that Customs & Excise requires a lot of paperwork and will hit you with penalties if you fail to file your VAT returns on time.

The Guardian

But failure to provide such documents -- or to file tax returns on time -- does not automatically result in the loss of co-op status, he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

While stopping to add independent board members now as opposed to later may seem too time-consuming, the return-on-time-invested is huge.

TechCrunch

That said, he and Elway went off for a round, timing it to ensure their return, on time, for their daughters' next game.

The New York Times - Sports

As long as they filed their tax return on time, there was no penalty.

The New York Times

The Sinai was returned on time; the talks about the Palestinians lapsed, and the rest is history.

The Economist

He says that he'd got annoyed when she didn't return on time and decided to see the movie on his own.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "returns on time", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being returned and the specific timeframe. For example: "The project returns on time to meet client expectations."

Common error

Avoid using "returns on time" when referring to emotional states or abstract concepts. This phrase is best suited for tangible items or measurable actions with defined deadlines.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "returns on time" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the timing of a return. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and grammatical correctness in English. Examples show that it often specifies when something is due or submitted.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "returns on time" is grammatically sound and serves to emphasize adherence to deadlines and schedules. While Ludwig AI confirms it as correct, usage is somewhat uncommon, predominantly appearing in News & Media. When employing the phrase, clarity regarding what is being returned and the deadline is crucial. For alternatives, consider "arrives punctually" or "is delivered on schedule" for varied phrasing. Ensuring proper context avoids misapplication, keeping the focus on tangible or measurable actions with defined deadlines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arrives punctually

Focuses on the act of arriving, emphasizing punctuality.

is delivered on schedule

Highlights delivery according to a set schedule.

meets the deadline

Emphasizes fulfilling the requirements of a deadline.

is submitted promptly

Focuses on the act of submitting something without delay.

is completed by the due date

Highlights the completion of a task before a specified date.

adheres to the timetable

Focuses on adherence to a specific timetable or schedule.

is filed punctually

Highlights the act of filing without delay.

is handed in on schedule

Emphasizes submitting something following the schedule

reappears at the scheduled time

Focuses on reappearing at the expected moment.

is presented in a timely manner

Highlights the presentation of something without delay.

FAQs

What does "returns on time" mean?

The phrase "returns on time" generally refers to the act of something being submitted, delivered, or completed by a specified deadline or schedule. It emphasizes punctuality in the context of deadlines.

How to use "returns on time" in a sentence?

You can use "returns on time" in sentences like, "It's important that tax "returns on time" to avoid penalties." or "The library charges fines for books not "returned on time"".

What can I say instead of "returns on time"?

You can use alternatives like "arrives punctually", "is delivered on schedule", or "meets the deadline" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "returns on time" and ""returned on time""?

"Returns on time" is a more general phrase applicable to various contexts like submitting tax forms or project delivery. "Returned on time" specifically refers to the act of returning an item before the deadline, typically referring to physical objects or library books.