time is short

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time is short" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express urgency or the limited amount of time available for a task or situation. Example: "We need to finalize the project proposal quickly because time is short before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Time is short.

The New York Times

His time is short.

The New York Times

But time is short.

The Economist

The time is short.

The New York Times - Sports

"Time is short," he added.

Independent

"Time is short," she said.

The New York Times

Time is short now.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

But time is shorter than it may appear to be.

The Guardian

Hence, the processing time is shorter.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

"And time was short.

The New Yorker

Time was short.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overuse in close proximity within the same text; vary your language with synonyms to maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Don't use "time is short" in situations that require a calm, reassuring tone. The phrase implies pressure and can create unnecessary anxiety if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time is short" functions primarily as an expression of urgency or constraint. It serves to emphasize the limited availability of time for a particular task or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Books

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "time is short" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to convey urgency and emphasize the limited availability of time. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and broad usage. It is frequently found in News & Media and Academia, indicating its relevance across diverse contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended tone and avoid overuse for maximum impact. Alternatives such as "time is limited" or "time is running out" can provide variety in your writing, while maintaining the same sense of urgency. Remember, the goal is to create awareness and stimulate action without inducing unnecessary stress. Don't use "time is short" in situations that require a calm, reassuring tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time is limited

Focuses on the restriction of time, similar to the original phrase but slightly more formal.

time is running out

Emphasizes the progression of time towards a deadline or end, creating a sense of urgency.

we're short on time

Shifts the focus to the actor experiencing the time constraint, adding a personal element.

there's little time left

Highlights the scarcity of remaining time, similar in meaning but with a slightly different emphasis.

time is of the essence

Emphasizes the critical importance of acting quickly, adding a sense of urgency and importance.

the clock is ticking

A metaphorical expression emphasizing the relentless progression of time and impending deadlines.

time presses

A more formal and less common way to express the urgency of a situation.

urgency is paramount

Highlights the need for immediate action, shifting the focus from time to the required action.

deadlines loom

Emphasizes the impending nature of deadlines, creating a sense of pressure and anticipation.

swift action is needed

Focuses on the necessity of rapid action, shifting the emphasis from time to the required response.

FAQs

What does "time is short" mean?

The phrase "time is short" means that there is not much time available to complete a task or address a situation. It indicates a sense of urgency and the need for prompt action.

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

You can use alternatives like "time is limited", "time is running out", or "we're short on time" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "time is short"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to say "time is short". It's a common and accepted phrase in English.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "time is short"?

It's appropriate to use "time is short" when you want to emphasize the urgency of a situation and the need to act quickly because there is limited time available. Avoid using this phrase when a calm and reassuring tone is needed.