schedule is erratic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "schedule is erratic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a schedule that is inconsistent or unpredictable, often in contexts related to work, events, or personal plans. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, my schedule is erratic this week, making it difficult to plan meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The schedule is erratic.

The New York Times

The ferry schedule is erratic as the weather cools and nonexistent when the bay freezes over, and driving permits are difficult to obtain.

The New York Times - Travel

Understand that your pet is totally dependent on you and if your schedule is erratic, he'll feel anxious.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Raw's publishing schedule was erratic, to say the least, with only eight issues published between 1980 and 1986, but what it lacked in quantity it made up for in quality.

The Guardian - Books

In a suit the bank later brought against him, it said Mr. Ingram's work schedule was erratic, that he failed to show up for days at a time and skipped important meetings.

The New York Times

Ferry schedules are erratic and can change unexpectedly, and chartered boats usually need to be arranged through a hotel or travel agency (see below).

The New York Times - Travel

The schedule is so erratic, Ms. McCormack needs an au pair to cover child care.

The New York Times

He is erratic.

The Economist

Quality is erratic, too.

The Economist

SPRING is erratic.

The New York Times

His behaviour is erratic.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing work arrangements or commitments, use "schedule is erratic" to convey the idea that the timing and sequencing of tasks or events are unpredictable or inconsistent.

Common error

While acceptable, using "schedule is erratic" in highly formal or professional documents may sound less sophisticated. Consider alternatives such as "schedule is subject to change" or "schedule is inconsistent" to maintain a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "schedule is erratic" functions as a descriptive statement, characterizing a timetable or plan as unpredictable and inconsistent. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase describes ferry timetables, personal work schedules, and publishing plans.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "schedule is erratic" effectively conveys the idea of an inconsistent or unpredictable timetable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While not extremely frequent, its meaning is clear, and it serves to manage expectations about the stability of plans. Consider more formal alternatives like "schedule is unpredictable" or "schedule is subject to change" for professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

schedule is unpredictable

Emphasizes the lack of ability to foresee or anticipate the schedule's changes.

schedule is inconsistent

Highlights the lack of uniformity or regularity in the schedule.

schedule is irregular

Similar to inconsistent, but may suggest deviations from a norm or standard.

schedule is unstable

Suggests that the schedule is prone to frequent and possibly disruptive changes.

schedule fluctuates

Focuses on the varying nature of the schedule, implying ups and downs.

schedule is subject to change

Highlights the possibility of alterations and the lack of a fixed arrangement.

schedule is all over the place

Informal way of saying the schedule lacks order and is difficult to follow.

schedule lacks consistency

Directly states the absence of a consistent pattern.

schedule is unreliable

Highlights the inability to depend on the schedule remaining as planned.

schedule shifts frequently

Emphasizes how often the schedule undergoes alterations.

FAQs

How can I use "schedule is erratic" in a sentence?

You can use "schedule is erratic" to describe situations where timing is unpredictable. For example, "Due to unforeseen circumstances, my schedule is erratic this week" or "The ferry schedule to the island is erratic during the off-season".

What's the difference between "schedule is erratic" and "schedule is irregular"?

While both phrases suggest a lack of consistency, "schedule is irregular" often implies a deviation from a norm or standard pattern, whereas "schedule is erratic" suggests unpredictable and seemingly random variations.

What can I say instead of "schedule is erratic"?

You can use alternatives like "schedule is unpredictable", "schedule is inconsistent", or "schedule is subject to change" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "schedule is erratic" in professional communication?

Yes, it's generally acceptable. However, in very formal settings, consider using phrases like "schedule is subject to change" or "schedule is unpredictable" for a more polished tone.