this time though

USAGE SUMMARY

"this time though" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It implies that something happened previously and is being contrasted with what is currently happening. For example: "I usually take the train to work, but this time though I'm taking a taxi."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

This time, though, was different.

The New York Times

This time, though, Jacobs demurred.

The New York Times - Sports

This time, though, I smiled.

The New York Times

This time, though, there was a difference.

The New York Times - Sports

This time, though, things were different.

The New York Times

This time, though, things are different.

The Economist

This time though, they are wary.

Independent

This time, though, he prepared differently.

The New York Times - Sports

This time, though, he was incensed.

The New York Times

This time, though, he was quickly arrested.

The New York Times

This time, though, was a bit different.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this time though" to clearly signal a change or contrast with a previously stated or understood situation. It adds a sense of awareness of past events influencing the present.

Common error

Avoid using "this time though" if there isn't a clear prior situation or event being referenced. Without context, the phrase loses its contrasting effect and can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this time though" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase, connecting two clauses or sentences to indicate a contrast or a change from a previous situation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used to signal a shift in circumstances. The phrase builds upon an implicit or explicit reference to something that occurred before.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this time though" is a versatile phrase used to signal a contrast or change from a previous situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. It's most common in news and media, providing a neutral yet effective way to highlight differences. While adaptable, it's important to ensure clear context for the contrasting element to maintain clarity. Alternatives like "however, this time" can offer a slightly more formal tone when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, this time

Reorders the phrase to emphasize the contrasting element.

yet, on this occasion

Replaces "time" with "occasion" for a slightly more formal tone.

but this time around

Adds "around" for a more casual and conversational feel.

in this instance, however

Uses "instance" to specify a particular occurrence and "however" for contrast.

on this occasion, unlike before

Explicitly contrasts with previous occurrences.

contrary to previous times

Emphasizes the difference from past situations.

this situation, in contrast

Highlights the contrast with a specific situation.

nevertheless, at present

Introduces a sense of continuation despite the contrast.

as opposed to before

Directly compares and contrasts with a prior state.

differing from the last instance

Formally indicates a divergence from a previous event.

FAQs

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

Use "this time though" to highlight a contrast with a previous situation. For example: "I usually fail, but "this time though", I succeeded."

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

Alternatives to "this time though" include "however, this time" or "yet, on this occasion" for a more formal tone.

Is "this time though" suitable for formal writing?

While "this time though" is widely understood, it leans towards a neutral or slightly informal register. In highly formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "in this instance, however".

What's the difference between "this time though" and "last time though"?

"This time though" refers to the present or immediate situation, while "last time though" refers to a specific past occurrence. For example, "This time though, I'm prepared," versus, "Last time though, I wasn't."