time is precious

USAGE SUMMARY

"time is precious" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the importance of making the best use of one's time, or the idea that time is limited and should not be wasted. For example, "Time is precious, so make sure to focus on the tasks that will help you achieve your goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My free time is precious.

The New York Times

Reading time is precious.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"My time is precious".

The Guardian - Film

Time is precious, but so is money.

The New York Times

My time is precious now.

The Guardian - Music

Your sponsors' time is precious.

The Guardian

"My time is precious, Judge.

The New York Times

In the creative economy, time is precious.

Harvard Business Review

Time is precious for most investors.

The Guardian

Time is precious for Isabelle Kocher.

The Times

Yes, doctors are busy, but everyone's time is precious.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair the phrase with a specific call to action to prevent it from sounding like an empty platitude

Common error

Because the phrase is so widely used, it can lose its impact if not supported by specific context. Instead of just stating the fact, follow it with a concrete reason why time is limited in that particular instance. Also, avoid using it to justify rudeness or abruptness in communication; it should frame efficiency as a mutual benefit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time is precious" functions as a declarative sentence composed of a noun subject ("time"), a linking verb ("is") and a predicative adjective ("precious"). In many of the examples provided by Ludwig, it serves as an independent clause that justifies a preceding or following request for efficiency or focus.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Social Media

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "time is precious" is an exceptionally robust and versatile expression in the English language. According to the data from Ludwig, it is used consistently across elite journalism, academic discourse and professional business environments to underscore the importance of efficiency and prioritization. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and functions as a standard declarative statement. While it can border on cliché if used without context, its presence in high-authority sources like The New York Times and Harvard University demonstrates its enduring utility. It is often used to frame a request for brevity as a form of mutual respect, making it a valuable tool for any writer looking to justify a focus on what truly matters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time is of the essence

Increases the sense of urgency and is more common in legal or formal contexts

time is invaluable

Swaps the adjective for a stronger synonym emphasizing that time cannot be priced

every moment counts

Focuses on the granular value of individual units of time

time is a finite resource

Uses a more analytical and economic tone to describe scarcity

the clock is ticking

A more metaphorical and dramatic way to express that time is running out

time is money

Specifically associates the value of time with economic productivity

life is short

Broadens the scope from a specific task to the human experience

moments are fleeting

Emphasizes the ephemeral nature of time rather than just its value

don't waste a second

An imperative form that focuses on the action of preserving time

time flies

An idiomatic observation about the speed of time passing rather than its inherent worth

FAQs

What can I say instead of "time is precious"?

You can use alternatives like "time is of the essence", "time is valuable" or "every second counts" depending on how much urgency you want to convey.

How to use "time is precious" in a sentence?

It is typically used as a declarative statement, for example: "We must make a decision quickly because "time is precious"."

What is the difference between "time is precious" and "time is of the essence"?

While both emphasize that time is limited, "time is of the essence" is a standard legal term often used in contracts to imply a deadline is a condition of the agreement, whereas "time is precious" is more philosophical and general.

Is "time is precious" or "time is money" better for business?

If you are discussing productivity and costs, "time is money" is more direct. However, if you are discussing respect for someone's schedule, "time is precious" sounds more polite and considerate.