time is dwindling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time is dwindling" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a situation where time is running out or becoming limited. Example: "As the deadline approaches, I must remind everyone that time is dwindling for us to complete the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But time is dwindling.

The New York Times

Although time is dwindling, Fisher is inching closer.

The New York Times - Sports

Time is dwindling for Congress to strike a deal on President Obama's payroll tax cut or risk raising taxes by $1,000 on average for 160 million working Americans on Jan . 1

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

His ice time was dwindling.

The New York Times - Sports

Our time was dwindling.

Vice

Domestic demand for full-time MBAs is dwindling, and few schools show any signs of keeping their costs under control.

The Economist

And Obama certainly recognizes that his remaining time in office is dwindling.

Huffington Post

Macs may make up a relatively small portion of Apple's overall sales, but the numbers this time around show that interest is dwindling fast in traditional computing form factor.

TechCrunch

Companies that make products from leather are facing tough times: the supply of leather is dwindling as fewer people eat meat, with the US cattle population dropping by 32% in the last few decades.

The Guardian

So, today will be one more day off the calendar for Ledee, 26, who knows his time for emerging with the Yankees is dwindling.

The New York Times - Sports

"There are serious conversations going on within public media right now about how do they improve their relevance both for society and as a media asset going forward," at a time when state and federal support is dwindling, and consumers have lots of media options, Mr. Kania said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "time is dwindling", ensure the context clearly indicates what the time is dwindling for. Provide specific details about the activity or goal being constrained by the limited time. This adds clarity and impact to your message.

Common error

Avoid using "time is dwindling" in overly casual conversations. While grammatically correct, it can sound unnecessarily formal or dramatic in everyday settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we're running out of time" or "we don't have much time left" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time is dwindling" functions as a statement indicating the reduction of available time. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in conveying urgency and limitation. The phrase combines a noun ("time") with a present continuous verb form ("is dwindling"), depicting an ongoing process of reduction.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "time is dwindling" effectively conveys that the amount of available time is decreasing, creating a sense of urgency. While grammatically correct and usable, Ludwig indicates it is somewhat formal and most frequently found in news and business contexts. For more casual settings, consider using alternatives like "time is running out". Remember to specify what the time is dwindling for to maximize clarity. The expert rating confirms its reliability and appropriate usage in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time is running out

Emphasizes the urgency of the situation due to the limited amount of time remaining.

time is running short

Highlights the inadequacy of the remaining time to complete a task or activity.

the clock is ticking

Uses a metaphorical clock to stress the passage of time and impending deadlines.

time is slipping away

Conveys a sense of loss and the irreversible nature of time passing.

time is fading

Suggests a gradual decrease in available time, often implying a sense of decline or disappearance.

the deadline is approaching

Focuses on the approaching limit, suitable in contexts where a specific end date is relevant.

our window of opportunity is closing

Highlights the diminishing chances for success or action within a specific timeframe.

time is at a premium

Emphasizes the high value and scarcity of time in a particular situation.

the sands of time are running low

A more poetic and evocative expression, emphasizing the scarcity of remaining time.

time is not on our side

Indicates that circumstances are making it difficult to achieve a goal within the available timeframe.

FAQs

What does "time is dwindling" mean?

The phrase "time is dwindling" means that the amount of available time is decreasing or running out. It suggests a sense of urgency or that action needs to be taken quickly before the opportunity is lost.

How can I use "time is dwindling" in a sentence?

You can use "time is dwindling" to emphasize that a deadline is approaching or that an opportunity is becoming limited. For example, "As the project deadline nears, "time is dwindling" for completing the final tasks".

What are some alternatives to "time is dwindling"?

Some alternatives to "time is dwindling" include "time is running out", "time is running short", or "the clock is ticking". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is it better to say "time is dwindling" or "time is running out"?

Both "time is dwindling" and "time is running out" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Time is dwindling" might be perceived as slightly more formal or literary, while "time is running out" is more commonly used in everyday conversation.