this time around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this time around" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the repetition of a particular event or activity. For example, "I'm looking forward to this time around of our annual camping trip."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This time around, no.

The New York Times

What's new this time around?

The New York Times

This time around, it's — already!

The New Yorker

Jon Huntsman this time around?

The New York Times

Now this time around, it's different.

The New York Times - Sports

Will things be different this time around?

The New York Times

Would they work this time around?

The Economist

McConnell's campaign manager this time around?

The New York Times

What can we expect this time around?

Independent

This time around could be equally revolutionary.

The New York Times

This time around, that weakness is squared.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this time around" to clearly indicate a contrast or comparison with a previous occurrence or situation. For example, "The company learned from its mistakes; this time around, the product launch was much smoother."

Common error

While "this time around" is acceptable in many contexts, it can sound too casual for formal writing. In such cases, consider using more formal alternatives such as "on this occasion" or "in the present instance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this time around" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the temporal context of an action or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. Examples show it comparing current situations to past ones.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this time around" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to highlight differences between current and past situations. As supported by Ludwig AI's analysis, its primary function is to add emphasis, and it predominantly appears in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in tone, writers should consider more formal alternatives like "on this occasion" in certain settings. The phrase is effective for setting up expectations of change or progress. Remember to use it to show how the present compares to the past. Alternatives include "this time" and "this go-round".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this time

A simpler and more direct alternative, reducing emphasis.

on this occasion

Focuses on the specific instance, differing in formality.

in this instance

Highlights the particular occurrence, shifting the emphasis slightly.

in this second attempt

Specific to situations involving a repeated effort, clarifies intent.

this go-round

An informal synonym, reducing formality.

in the current situation

Emphasizes the present circumstances, adding a situational perspective.

under these circumstances

Highlights the conditions affecting the situation, adding context.

now that we're here again

Rephrases the idea with an added sense of return or repetition.

given the present conditions

Highlights existing conditions as the reason for a change or observation.

with this iteration

Focuses on the iterative aspect, suitable for discussions of development or improvement.

FAQs

How can I use "this time around" in a sentence?

You can use "this time around" to compare a current situation with a past one, indicating a change or difference. For example, "Last year's festival was a disaster, but this time around, the organizers are better prepared."

What's a more formal alternative to "this time around"?

For more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "on this occasion" or "in the present instance" instead of "this time around".

Is "this time round" the same as "this time around"?

Yes, "this time round" is a synonym of "this time around", primarily used in British English. Both phrases mean the same thing: in this particular instance or occurrence. See also: "this time round".

How does "this time around" compare to simply saying "this time"?

"This time" is a more direct and simple way to refer to the current instance. "This time around" implies a comparison or contrast with a previous instance and suggests a sense of repetition or recurrence. For example: "this time".