setting a time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting a time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of establishing a specific time for an event or meeting. Example: "We need to finalize the details by setting a time for our next meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"And setting a time frame for disposal of these loans is a big step forward".

The New York Times

The single night we agreed to have dinner with another couple, even setting a time to meet seemed vaguely pressured.

The New York Times - Travel

Rather than setting a time frame, Valen asks if women have ever suffered because of jealousy, manipulation or ridicule.

The New York Times - Books

Ms. Klein said setting a time limit was important in all cases and should be written into estate plans.

The New York Times

Oy vey! Updated at 1.25am BST 12.37am BST Powell's bookshop We're in Powell's and have gone our separate ways, setting a time of 5pm to meet up.

The Guardian - Travel

Child: By setting a time limit on this, you're denying me the opportunity to claim this space and to truly own it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

He was even sanguine about Storey setting a time-trial mark on Wednesday some distance quicker than his: "One day I'll beat her.

The Guardian - Sport

Accordingly, we designed a dynamic refusal scheme to break circular-waiting by setting a time-varying possibility in each cluster, which determines whether a merging request should be accepted.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Naturally, Brownback concluded that if we weren't careful, this could lead to the rise of the Minotaurs, or a similar Dr. Caligari-type moment where we'd be "setting a time-bomb that might detonate many generations down the line," which would force the CIA to have to waterboard a human genome until it confessed to the whereabouts of the were-people.

Huffington Post

The issue of setting a time-bound target to reverse the trend in natural resource degradation caused disagreement among countries, as did references to the precautionary principle and the ecosystem approach, and the principle of "Common but Differentiated Responsibilities" agreed to in Rio.

Globalization and Health

Set a time in advance, set a timer.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When coordinating with others, clearly state the purpose of "setting a time" to ensure everyone understands the commitment and prepares accordingly.

Common error

When "setting a time" with individuals in different geographical locations, always clarify the time zone to avoid scheduling conflicts and ensure effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting a time" functions primarily as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the action of scheduling or arranging a specific time for an event or activity, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

29%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "setting a time" is a versatile and commonly used gerund phrase that functions as a noun, indicating the act of scheduling or arranging a specific time. Ludwig highlights its widespread application across various contexts, from news and media to science and everyday communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and is most effectively used by ensuring clarity, precision, and awareness of time zone differences. Alternatives such as "scheduling a time" or "arranging a time" can be used to provide variety in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scheduling a time

Focuses more on the act of putting something on a schedule.

arranging a time

Implies making arrangements or preparations for a specific time.

fixing a time

Suggests establishing a time that is definite and not subject to change.

establishing a time

More formal and emphasizes the act of creating or instituting a time.

determining a time

Emphasizes the process of finding out or deciding on a suitable time.

deciding on a time

Focuses on making a choice or decision about when something will occur.

nominating a time

More formal and implies suggesting a time for consideration.

allocating a time

Suggests assigning a specific time for a particular purpose.

specifying a time

Focuses on providing precise details regarding when something should happen.

designating a time

Implies formally appointing or assigning a specific time.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "setting a time"?

You can use alternatives like "scheduling a time", "arranging a time", or "fixing a time" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "setting a time" or "to set a time"?

Both "setting a time" and "to set a time" are grammatically correct, but they function differently. "Setting a time" acts as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun, while "to set a time" is an infinitive phrase, typically used to express purpose or intention.

How can I effectively use "setting a time" in professional communication?

In professional communication, be precise and clear when "setting a time". Provide the date, time, time zone, and purpose of the meeting or event to ensure everyone is well-informed and prepared.

What is the importance of "setting a time" in project management?

"Setting a time" is crucial in project management for establishing deadlines, allocating resources, and tracking progress. It helps to maintain focus, ensure accountability, and achieve project goals within a defined timeframe.