the time is ripe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the time is ripe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that the present moment is an ideal or opportune point in time to take action or begin a task. For example, you might say "Now that our team has the necessary resources to complete the project, the time is ripe for us to get started."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The time is ripe.

The New York Times

The time is ripe, say advocates.

The Economist

The time is ripe for a change.

The Economist

The time is ripe for two reasons.

The New Yorker

The time is ripe for Police Department transparency.

The New York Times

The time is ripe, they all believe.

The Guardian

The time is ripe for a festival to celebrate it".

The New York Times

The time is ripe for a new approach.

The Economist

ReprintsIn theory, the time is ripe for union growth.

The Economist

But the time is ripe to push ahead.

The New York Times

The time is ripe for foreign deals, he chirps.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the time is ripe" to introduce a call to action, especially when explaining why a particular course of action is now favorable or necessary.

Common error

While "the time is ripe" is a valid idiom, avoid using it repeatedly within a short span of text. Vary your language by using alternatives like "the moment is right" or "now is the ideal time" to prevent your writing from sounding monotonous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the time is ripe" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that the present moment is particularly favorable or opportune for a specific action or event. Ludwig examples show its wide use in diverse contexts, suggesting its role as a common way to signal readiness and opportunity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the time is ripe" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to convey that the present moment offers a favorable opportunity for action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While generally neutral in register, it can be used in both formal and informal writing. If you're seeking alternatives, phrases like "the moment is right" or "now is the ideal time" offer similar meanings. Remember to use the phrase judiciously to avoid repetition and maintain the freshness of your writing. Ludwig's analysis indicates that this phrase serves as a persuasive tool, encouraging action by emphasizing opportune conditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the moment is right

Changes the noun to "moment", making it slightly less emphatic.

now is the ideal time

Replaces "ripe" with "ideal", suggesting optimal conditions.

it's the perfect time

Replaces "ripe" with "perfect", making it slightly more general.

the opportunity is here

Focuses on the presence of an opportunity rather than the readiness of the time.

the stage is set

Uses a metaphorical expression, implying preparation for an event or action.

everything is in place

Focuses on the preparedness and readiness of all necessary elements.

the conditions are favorable

Emphasizes the positive circumstances surrounding the situation.

it's an opportune moment

Uses a more formal term "opportune" and emphasizes the brevity of the moment.

the moment is auspicious

Replaces "ripe" with "auspicious" adding a sense of fortune or destiny.

the stars are aligned

Implies a fortuitous combination of events.

FAQs

How can I use "the time is ripe" in a sentence?

You can use "the time is ripe" to indicate that circumstances are favorable for a particular action or decision. For example, "Now that the economy is recovering, "the time is ripe" for new investments".

What's a good alternative to "the time is ripe"?

Alternatives to "the time is ripe" include "the moment is right", "the opportunity is here", or "now is the ideal time". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "the time is ripe" formal or informal?

"The time is ripe" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing. In highly formal settings, "the conditions are favorable" might be preferable.

What does it mean when someone says "the time is ripe"?

When someone says "the time is ripe", they mean that the present circumstances are particularly well-suited or advantageous for a specific action, decision, or event. It implies that conditions are optimal for success.