third time was

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "third time was" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an event or situation that has occurred for the third time, often in the context of something that is expected to change or improve after repeated attempts. Example: "After two failed attempts, I was hopeful that the third time was the charm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

The third time was tamer.

Independent

The third time was the charm.

The New York Times

Third time was domestic abuse.

The New York Times - Magazine

The third time was another crosstown bus.

The New York Times

The third time was one too many.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Yet the third time was a charm.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

The third time is enemy action".

The Economist

Perhaps the third time is the charm.

The New York Times - Tech

Usually the third time is the charm.

BBC

Third time is a charm.

TechCrunch

"Obviously the third time is by force".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "third time was", ensure the context clearly establishes the previous two occurrences to provide a complete understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "third time was" without clearly indicating what the first two times were. This can lead to confusion and require the reader to make assumptions about the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "third time was" functions as a temporal marker and narrative device. It signals a specific point in a sequence of events, often implying a change or resolution. As per Ludwig's data, this is commonly used in various forms of writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

20%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "third time was" is a commonly used temporal marker to indicate a specific point in a sequence of events. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and versatile, found in various contexts like News & Media and Science. While semantically similar phrases exist, "third time was" is clear and direct. Remember to provide sufficient context when using this phrase and avoid ambiguity. According to Ludwig, this expression functions as a narrative device, offering expectations of change or resolution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the third occasion

Emphasizes the specific instance in a sequence of events.

by the third instance

Highlights the cumulative effect leading up to the third occurrence.

after the third attempt

Focuses on the effort involved in achieving a result.

the third instance proved to be

More formal way to introduce the outcome of the third occurrence.

the third iteration showed

Emphasizes a process of refinement or repetition.

the third occasion marked

Highlights the significance or impact of the third time.

the third episode revealed

Suggests a narrative or unfolding series of events.

at the third juncture

Emphasizes a critical point in a series of events.

the third round resulted in

Indicates a stage within a larger process or competition.

in the third go

Informal way to describe a third attempt.

FAQs

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

You can use "third time was" to refer to a specific occasion in a sequence of events, such as "The "third time was the charm" for Chicago, who won 3-2".

What does "third time's the charm" mean?

It means that after two unsuccessful attempts, the "third attempt" will finally be successful.

Which is correct, "third time was" or "the third time was"?

"The third time was" is more grammatically complete, but "third time was" is also acceptable, especially in informal contexts where the meaning is clear. It is recommended to always use "the third time was" in formal writing.

What are some alternatives to saying "third time was"?

Alternatives include "on the third occasion", "after the third attempt", or phrases using ordinals such as "the third instance".