the allotted time is up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the allotted time is up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a specific period designated for a task or activity has ended. Example: "Please submit your assignments now, as the allotted time is up."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

New York Times Scavenger Hunt: 2012 Iowa Caucuses Find the following items: When the allotted time is up, have each team share findings and check for accuracy.

The New York Times

So when it transpires that our interview will take place at a bar so close to his home that once the allotted time is up, he could feasibly launch himself from his seat and land back on his sofa with his wife and son within seconds, with nothing more to show for his efforts than a couple of smashed window panes, it's a blow.

Independent

Return when the allotted time is up.

WikiHow

Once the allotted time is up, wash it off under a warm shower.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

After the allotted time was up, students were supposed to check their own performance, pay themselves, shred the test, and leave.

Harvard Business Review

The pitches - kept to time by a guardsman who sounded a bugle when the allotted time was up - were largely impressive.

BBC

After your allotted time is up, graciously leave the stage and return to your seat.

WikiHow

Our allotted time is up, though Krauss is struck by a sudden thought and springs to her feet.

The Guardian - Music

The group's energy was just cresting when its allotted time was up, so the band members squeezed out a few more songs, switching instruments and places on stage four times, and spraying the crowd with beer.

The New York Times - Arts

Our allotted time was up.

The Guardian - Music

Pixxx!" in machine-gun fashion until their allotted time was up.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the allotted time is up" to clearly signal the end of a designated period, especially in structured settings like exams, presentations, or timed activities. This ensures everyone is aware that the activity must stop.

Common error

Avoid using similar-sounding words like 'elated' or 'alluded' in place of 'allotted'. 'Allotted' specifically refers to something given or assigned as a share or task. The phrase "the allotted time is up" means the specific timeframe that was given has ended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the allotted time is up" functions as an announcement or declaration, signaling the termination of a pre-defined time period. Ludwig examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, from academic scavenger hunts to medical treatments, all unified by the common thread of concluding a timed activity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the allotted time is up" serves as a clear indicator that a specific time period for an activity has ended. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not extremely common, it appears across diverse contexts like news, wikis, and scientific publications. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal settings. When using this phrase, ensure that 'allotted' is not confused with similar-sounding words, and consider more direct alternatives like "time's up" for brevity. The frequency of use is uncommon, with most examples originating from Wiki and News & Media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Time's up

A shorter, more direct way of saying the allotted time has ended.

The time is over

Indicates the conclusion of a specific duration.

The deadline has passed

Focuses on the passing of a final submission date.

We're out of time

Emphasizes a lack of remaining time.

The period has expired

A more formal way of indicating the end of a timeframe.

The session is complete

Suggests the finishing of a scheduled activity or meeting.

The designated time has elapsed

A formal and precise way to state the time has run out.

The timeframe has concluded

Similar to 'expired' but with a slightly different tone.

No more time remains

Highlights the absence of any further available time.

The end of the line

Idiomatic expression indicating the conclusion or limit.

FAQs

What does "the allotted time is up" mean?

It means that the specific amount of time that was designated or assigned for a particular task, activity, or session has come to an end.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "the allotted time is up"?

It's appropriate in situations where a specific time limit has been set for an activity, such as during exams, presentations, meetings, or timed exercises.

Are there any formal alternatives to the phrase "the allotted time is up"?

Yes, you could use more formal alternatives such as "the designated time has elapsed" or "the period has expired". See also "time's up".

What is a common mistake people make when using the term "allotted"?

A common mistake is confusing "allotted" with similar-sounding words. Remember that "allotted" means something has been given or assigned. For other usages, consider "the time is over".