time frames

USAGE SUMMARY

"time frames" is a commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a length of time during which something must be accomplished. For example, "We need to set reasonable time frames for each task to ensure our project is completed on schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Underlined time frames indicate the timing of NE breakage.

Current Biology

There are three time frames.

Independent

"They didn't understand time frames," he said.

The New York Times

"We've all agreed to these time frames.

The New York Times

"The Cap" unfolds in fragments and shifting time frames.

The New York Times - Books

The film loops between their two time frames.

The Guardian - Film

Was it complicated to manage these shifting time frames?

The New Yorker

Perhaps we should lobby for longer policy time frames".

The Guardian

They were just composed in two entirely different time frames".

The New York Times

Fels's investigation loops through a few time frames.

The New York Times - Books

The most common decorating mistake is… unrealistic time frames.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting "time frames" for a project, be realistic about potential delays and build in buffer time to account for unforeseen circumstances.

Common error

Avoid setting overly ambitious "time frames" that are not achievable, as this can lead to stress, burnout, and ultimately, project failure. Always consider available resources and potential obstacles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time frames" functions primarily as a noun, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is frequently used to describe periods within which certain activities occur or goals should be accomplished. The examples showcase the use of "time frames" across diverse contexts, from scientific research to news reporting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "time frames" is a versatile noun phrase widely used to denote specific durations or periods. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears across various contexts, including news, scientific research, and business planning. While its register leans towards professional, it remains accessible for general use. When employing "time frames" in your writing, strive for precision and realism to ensure clarity and effectiveness. Consider using related phrases like "periods of time" or "specified timeframes" for variety, but always prioritize accuracy and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specified timeframes

This alternative uses a single word to represent time frames.

time spans

This alternative emphasizes the length of time involved.

periods of time

This is a more general and less technical alternative.

allotted durations

Refers to a specific quantity of time that has been assigned.

duration windows

This alternative is more technical and emphasizes the concept of a defined window.

projected timelines

Focuses on future planned durations for tasks or projects.

scheduling intervals

This emphasizes the planning and organization aspect of time.

defined schedules

Highlights the structured aspect of how time is allocated.

temporal extents

A more formal and abstract way of referring to periods.

designated slots

Emphasizes specific portions of time reserved for activities.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "time frames" in project management?

Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals within clearly defined "time frames". This helps in tracking progress and ensuring timely completion.

What's the difference between "time frame" and "time frames"?

"Time frame" is singular, referring to one specific period, while "time frames" is plural, referring to multiple distinct periods.

Are there synonyms for "time frames" in a business context?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use terms like "deadlines", "milestones", or "projected timelines" to convey the same meaning.

How do I determine appropriate "time frames" for tasks?

Consider the complexity of the task, the resources available, and any dependencies on other tasks. It's often helpful to break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps with individual "time frames".