the clock ticked on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the clock ticked on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to convey the passage of time, often in a context where time is moving forward despite other events or emotions occurring. Example: "As she waited for the results, the clock ticked on, each second feeling like an eternity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The clock ticked on in the hot apartment.

The New York Times

The officers decided to scour local businesses armed with pictures of the suspect, as the clock ticked on towards Friday.

The Guardian

Had Samoa had greater discipline in the first half and greater match fitness as the clock ticked on, the result might have been different.

Independent

But as the clock ticked on, their confidence increased and it became clear that this was not to be ninth time lucky for the Samoans.

Independent

And as the clock ticked on, the audience decided he didn't need to be on stage either, starting to clap when he paused for breath.

The Guardian

There will always be another dream world for them, in which the clock ticked on, the girls came home, back into their sunny lives, and they are not 10 any more, but growing up.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The clocks tick on — seven-fifty, eight o'clock.

The New Yorker

Is the clock ticking on Swiss watchmaking?

The Guardian

Meanwhile, the clock ticks on the Brexit negotiations.

The Guardian

The clock ticks on to quarter past, then half past.

The Guardian

Scottish Secretary Michael Moore said: "The Scottish Government has set the clock ticking on the independence referendum.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "the clock ticked on" with sensory details to enhance the reader's immersion in the scene, making them feel the pressure of time.

Common error

Avoid using "the clock ticked on" excessively in descriptive passages, as it can become repetitive and detract from the overall impact. Vary your phrasing to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the clock ticked on" functions as an idiomatic expression used to denote the passage of time, often while conveying a sense of anticipation, suspense, or inevitability. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"The clock ticked on" is a grammatically correct phrase primarily used in news and media to denote the passage of time, often creating suspense or urgency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a well-formed and usable expression. While there aren't many examples, the existing ones from authoritative sources suggest its effectiveness in descriptive writing. When using this phrase, it's best to avoid overuse and be mindful of the context to maximize its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the clock kept ticking

Similar in meaning, but less idiomatic and more literal.

time passed

A more general and simple way of saying time moved forward.

time went by

Similar to "time passed", but emphasizes the experience of time elapsing.

the minutes ticked away

Focuses on the gradual disappearance of time, especially when anticipating something.

the hours rolled on

Suggests a more leisurely or uneventful passage of time.

days slipped by

Emphasizes the effortless and often unnoticed passage of days.

events unfolded

Focuses more on the progression of events than the passage of time itself.

life went on

Suggests that despite certain events, life continued its normal course.

the story progressed

Highlights the development of a narrative over time.

the saga continued

Implies a long and dramatic series of events that kept developing.

FAQs

How can I use "the clock ticked on" in a sentence?

Use "the clock ticked on" to indicate the passage of time, often when something significant is about to happen or when there's a sense of urgency. For example: "As the negotiators argued, "the clock ticked on", bringing them closer to the deadline".

What can I say instead of "the clock ticked on"?

You can use alternatives like "time passed", "time went by", or "the minutes ticked away" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the clock ticks on" instead of "the clock ticked on"?

While "the clock ticks on" is grammatically correct and describes the ongoing process of time, "the clock ticked on" refers to a specific period in the past. The choice depends on whether you're describing a general truth or a particular situation.

What's the difference between "the clock ticked on" and "time stood still"?

"The clock ticked on" emphasizes the continuous movement of time, often creating tension or anticipation. In contrast, "time stood still" suggests a pause or suspension of time, usually in moments of shock, awe, or profound emotion.