third time in a row

USAGE SUMMARY

"third time in a row" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that happens for the third consecutive time. For example: "The team has won the championship for the third time in a row."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The cup will be lifted, for the third time in a row, in almost complete silence.

The Guardian - Sport

In November 2015, I poked my friend Britta for the third time in a row.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was the third time in a row Williams has won this event.

The New York Times - Sports

They could win here for the third time in a row.

The Guardian - Sport

One person who won't make it for the third time in a row is Mr. Bloomberg's mother, Charlotte.

The New York Times

This is the third time in a row that the approval rate is over fifty per cent.

The New Yorker

This is the third time in a row that the judges have decided against naming a winner.

The New York Times

"First, they trade me away, and that's the third time in a row that I've had to face Clemens".

The New York Times - Sports

This was Stoke's second consecutive 4-0 defeandand the third time in a row four goals have been conceded.

The Guardian - Sport

The Kite Runner was voted reading group book of the year for the third time in a row.

The Guardian - Books

For the third time in a row, Sam Worthington (Avatar, Terminator: Salvation) plays an Aussie bloke who finds himself with super-powers.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "third time in a row", ensure the context makes it clear what event is being repeated. Be specific to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying 'They won for the "third time in a row",' specify what they won: 'They won the championship for the "third time in a row".'

Common error

Avoid using "third time in a row" when referring to events that aren't directly related or connected. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a consistent streak or uninterrupted sequence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "third time in a row" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the frequency or manner in which an action or event occurs, specifying that it has happened consecutively for three instances. As Ludwig shows, it adds emphasis to recurring events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Sport

33%

Opinion

8%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "third time in a row" is a versatile and grammatically correct way to describe something occurring consecutively for the third time. As shown by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news, sports, and opinion contexts, indicating its widespread acceptance. To maximize impact, be specific about the event being repeated and maintain clarity. While "three-peat" is a sport-specific synonym, "third time in a row" applies across various situations. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness in written English, making it a reliable choice for expressing recurring events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for the third consecutive time

Emphasizes the sequence and unbroken nature of the occurrences.

three times in succession

Stresses the order and sequence of the events.

three times consecutively

Highlights the numerical repetition without specific emphasis on achievement.

three straight times

A more informal way to indicate uninterrupted repetition.

on three successive occasions

More formal and emphasizes the series of events.

for three years running

Implies an annual event that has been repeated.

a three-peat

Sport-specific slang for winning a championship three times consecutively.

third straight victory

Focused specifically on winning scenarios.

achieving a hat trick

Refers to achieving something three times, often used in sports context.

completing a treble

Typically refers to winning three championships or trophies in a single season.

FAQs

How can I use "third time in a row" in a sentence?

You can use "third time in a row" to indicate that something has happened three consecutive times. For example, "This is the "third time in a row" that our company has exceeded its quarterly sales goals."

What are some alternatives to saying "third time in a row"?

Alternatives include "for the third consecutive time", "three times consecutively", or "three straight times". Depending on the context, you might also use "on three successive occasions".

Is it ever appropriate to use "three-peat" instead of "third time in a row"?

"Three-peat" is a colloquial term, primarily used in sports, to describe winning a championship three times in a row. It's more informal than "third time in a row" and only applies in competitive contexts. The phrase "third time in a row" can be used in various other contexts, not only sports.

Is "third time in a row" grammatically correct?

Yes, "third time in a row" is grammatically sound and widely accepted in both formal and informal writing. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English.