round the clock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "round the clock" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that is happening all the time or continuously. For example: We strive to provide customer support round the clock.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Cable coverage has been round the clock.

The New York Times

His studios run round the clock.

The New York Times

Determination and working round the clock.

The Guardian

"People in the square relaxed, drank beer, round the clock".

The New York Times

"I think I worked round the clock for three months.

The New York Times - Sports

Mirrors are covered, and a candle burns round the clock.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Round-the-clock quorum calls.

The New Yorker

Is available round-the-clock.

The New York Times

With his own round-the-clock I.C.U.

The New York Times

Round-the-clock electricity remains elusive.

The New York Times

Helen needed round-the-clock medication.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "round the clock" to emphasize continuous operation or availability. For example, a "round the clock" security service ensures constant protection.

Common error

While "round the clock" is a useful phrase, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "24/7" or "continuously" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "round the clock" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating that an action or service occurs continuously, 24 hours a day. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard way to express constant availability or operation. Examples from Ludwig show it modifying nouns like care, service, and operation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "round the clock" is a commonly used adverbial phrase that means continuously or 24 hours a day. As Ludwig AI states, it's grammatically correct and widely understood. It is found most frequently in news and media sources and is used to emphasize the uninterrupted availability of a service or activity. When writing, remember to use it to highlight continuous operations and be aware of possible synonyms such as "around the clock" or "24/7".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

around the clock

A very similar phrase with nearly identical meaning.

24/7

A shorter, more modern way to say continuous.

all day and all night

More emphatic version of "day and night".

day and night

Emphasizes both daytime and nighttime activity.

nonstop

Focuses on the lack of interruption.

without a break

Clearly indicates the absence of pauses.

continuously

A more formal adverb expressing constant action.

without interruption

Focuses on the lack of breaks in an activity.

incessantly

Highlights the unceasing nature of the activity, often with a negative connotation.

perpetually

Suggests an ongoing, never-ending state.

FAQs

How can I use "round the clock" in a sentence?

You can use "round the clock" to describe services, operations, or care that are available or happen continuously, 24 hours a day. For instance, "The hospital provides "24/7" or "round the clock" nursing care."

What is a similar phrase to "round the clock"?

A similar phrase is "around the clock". They both mean continuously, without stopping.

Is it better to use "round the clock" or "around the clock"?

Both "round the clock" and "around the clock" are correct and widely used. The choice often comes down to personal preference, as they have virtually identical meanings.

What's the difference between "round the clock" and "nonstop"?

"Round the clock" specifically refers to something happening 24 hours a day, while "nonstop" emphasizes the absence of interruptions. While they can overlap, "nonstop" doesn't necessarily imply a full 24-hour period.