time is at hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time is at hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a particular moment or event is imminent or approaching soon. Example: "As the deadline for the project approaches, the time is at hand for us to finalize our plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The time is at hand!

The Economist

The time is at hand to revive the discussion of companionate marriage, for it is now apparent that the….

The New Yorker

"Now that the Islamist threat has diminished," she added, "the time is at hand to push harder for reforms".

The New York Times

Phrases like "my time is at hand" and "talk about things to come" resonate as the song assumes a biblical dimension.

The New York Times - Arts

The Nixon-era, law-and-order sentiment of the movie was unmistakable: criminals are out of control; payback time is at hand.

The New Yorker

In early May , 15House Republicans sent President Bush a letter urging action in Sudan: "The time is at hand to reassert the resolve of the United States that the atrocities taking place in Darfur cannot stand".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Decision time was at hand, however.

The New York Times

Mr. Zuma's time was at hand.

The New York Times

The time was at hand to step up preparations for a no-deal Brexit, the leaders agreed.

The Guardian

"John and I," he said last week, referring to Dr. Sulston, "were on record in 1994 as trying to push things and saying the time was at hand.

The New York Times - Science

Saying the time was at hand to "bind up our own wounds," President Clinton today extended full diplomatic recognition to Vietnam 22 years after the American withdrawal from a bitterly divisive war that still scars the national psyche.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "time is at hand" to create a sense of anticipation or urgency, signaling that a significant event is about to occur. This phrase works well in both formal and informal contexts but is often used to emphasize the importance of the moment.

Common error

Avoid using "time is at hand" in very casual or trivial situations, as it can sound overly dramatic or pretentious. Reserve it for moments where the impending event genuinely carries some weight or significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time is at hand" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that a particular moment or event is approaching or imminent. As Ludwig confirms, it is a correct and usable English phrase. It often serves to heighten anticipation or emphasize the significance of the upcoming event.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "time is at hand" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying the imminence of a significant event. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to create anticipation or highlight the importance of the moment. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where the approaching event warrants a degree of emphasis, avoiding overuse in casual settings. Alternatives such as "the moment is near" or "the time has come" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Major sources like The New York Times and The Economist use the phrase, attesting to its widespread acceptance in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the moment is near

Uses "moment" instead of "time", creating a slightly more dramatic or significant feel.

the time has come

A more common and direct way of saying the same thing, often used for decisive moments.

the hour is upon us

More formal and often used in serious or historical contexts, emphasizing a sense of destiny.

the day is dawning

Employs metaphorical language indicating a new beginning or turning point is approaching.

the end is nigh

Specifically refers to the approaching end of something, often with a negative or foreboding connotation.

the deadline is looming

Focuses on the approach of a specific deadline, creating a sense of pressure or urgency.

the opportunity is knocking

Emphasizes an approaching chance or possibility, often requiring immediate action.

the critical juncture approaches

Highlights the imminent arrival of a decisive point, typically in formal or analytical contexts.

we are on the verge

Implies being at the edge of something significant happening.

the kickoff is fast approaching

A sports-related metaphor that indicates the start of an event.

FAQs

How can I use "time is at hand" in a sentence?

You can use "time is at hand" to indicate that a particular moment or event is imminent. For example, "As the deadline for the project approaches, the time is at hand for us to finalize our plans."

What can I say instead of "time is at hand"?

You can use alternatives like "the moment is near", "the time has come", or "the hour is upon us" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "time is at hand"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the imminence and importance of a coming event. It's suitable for moments that require attention or preparation due to their significance.

Is "time is at hand" formal or informal?

The phrase "time is at hand" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it tends to be more common in slightly elevated or serious situations. It's generally more formal than saying "the time has come".