time is key

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time is key" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to emphasize the importance of timing in a particular situation. For example, "Getting to the meeting before the competition does will be essential - time is key!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

So knowing and having the proper coverage ahead of time is key," Moore said.

The Washington Post

You can, however, fight back: shopping around at renewal time is key, but do so in advance.

The Guardian - Money

Additionally, cooling field grown produce to the right temperature in the right amount of time is key for food safety.

Cornell University

We found that a transient increase in shear stress at the appropriate time is key to enhancing endothelialization.

Acta Biomaterialia

Ms. Ferber says she has found that taking her time is key to success: "The best way to fall is by jumping a step".

The New York Times

Our results demonstrate that the growth rate is similar in the presence and absence of an applied potential and control of growth time is key to controlling nanoparticle size.

Electrochimica Acta

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Stevens, who was running the European division at the time, was key to winning the contracts.

The Guardian

The result shows that the sintering temperature and time are key parameters to get high thermal property of the composites.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Water evapotranspiration and seepage processes, vegetation characteristics and hydrologic residence time were key factors affecting concentration and load reductions.

Agricultural Water Management

Naming those expectations for good writing, coordinating those expectations with the course's other learning goals, and planning for improvement over time are key strategies in this effort.

Yale University

During a game, a precise, dynamic balance between speeding up actions and avoiding mistakes at the same time are key to winning.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "time is key", ensure the context clearly establishes what depends on effective timing. Be specific about the implications of good or poor timing.

Common error

Avoid using "time is key" as a generic filler. Always provide context; clarify what the time is key to. For example, instead of just stating "time is key", specify "In negotiations, "response time" is key to securing the best deal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time is key" functions as a concise assertion emphasizing the critical importance of timing or duration within a given situation. It highlights that success or a desired outcome heavily relies on acting at the right moment or managing time effectively. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "time is key" is a versatile phrase used to stress the importance of timing in various contexts. Ludwig AI affirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. While very common across different types of sources, including news, science, and academic writing, it's crucial to use it with clear context, specifying what depends on effective timing. Alternatives like "timing is crucial" or "time is of the essence" can offer nuanced emphasis. Remember to provide context for clarity and avoid overuse as a generic filler.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

timing is crucial

Emphasizes importance of when something happens.

time is of the essence

Highlights urgency and the limited time available.

timing is everything

Suggests success hinges entirely on opportune timing.

the moment is critical

Focuses on the significance of the present instant.

duration is vital

Highlights the importance of how long something lasts or takes.

deadlines matter most

Emphasizes the importance of meeting specific time-based targets.

punctuality is paramount

Stresses the value of being on time.

every second counts

Highlights the preciousness and impact of even small amounts of time.

the window is small

Indicates a limited opportunity that requires immediate action.

swift action is essential

Emphasizes the necessity of prompt and quick response.

FAQs

What does "time is key" mean?

The phrase "time is key" means that timing or the duration of something is critically important for success or achieving a desired outcome. It implies that acting at the right moment or within a specific timeframe is essential.

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

You can use "time is key" to emphasize the importance of timing in various situations. For example, "In emergency situations, "fast response" is key to saving lives", or "When investing, recognizing market trends early and acting accordingly is key to maximizing returns".

What are some alternatives to "time is key"?

Some alternatives to "time is key" include "timing is crucial", "time is of the essence", and "timing is everything". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to say "time is key"?

While grammatically correct, using "time is key" can be ineffective if the context doesn't clearly establish why timing is important. Always ensure that the sentence or surrounding text clarifies what depends on time and what the consequences of poor timing might be.