time of year

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time of year" is correct in written English and can be used in a variety of contexts.
For example, you could say "I love the holidays, it's the best time of year!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The chilly time of year.

The New Yorker

This time of year, it is essential.

The New York Times - Sports

Perfect for this time of year".

The New York Times

Best time of year: February to May.

Independent

It is that time of year again.

The New York Times

It is that time of year.

The New York Times

This is his time of year.

The New York Times - Sports

Perhaps it's the time of year.

The New York Times

At that time of year there is.

The New Yorker

IT'S that time of year again.

Forbes

That time of year you now behold.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, specify the "time of year" to provide context and clarity to your audience. For instance, instead of saying "it's a busy time", specify "it's a busy time of year" like during the holiday season to give the reader more insight.

Common error

Avoid using "time of year" without specifying which part of the year you're referring to. Saying "the weather is nice this time" lacks clarity. Instead, specify "the weather is nice this time of year", especially in spring, to enhance understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time of year" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific period or season within the annual cycle. Ludwig AI indicates it’s a correct and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "time of year" is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase that refers to a specific period or season within the annual cycle. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. As evidenced by examples from sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, it commonly appears in news articles and academic contexts. Related phrases like "season" and "period of the year" offer similar meanings with slight variations in formality and emphasis. To ensure clarity in writing, always specify which "time of year" you are referring to. Be aware that the frequency of occurrence varies across sources, highlighting the importance of choosing the most appropriate phrase for your specific needs and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

season

Refers to a specific period of the year characterized by particular weather conditions or activities.

period of the year

Emphasizes a duration within the annual cycle, suitable for formal contexts.

part of the year

Indicates a segment of the year, useful for general references.

specific time of the year

Highlights the exactness or distinctiveness of the period.

certain time of the year

Suggests a particular, though not necessarily specified, period annually.

annual season

Combines the concepts of yearly recurrence and seasonal characteristics.

timeframe in the year

Highlights a period within the year.

seasonal period

Focuses on the characteristics of the season.

yearly cycle

Broader reference to the yearly pattern, less specific to a short time.

point in the calendar

Indicates specific dates or events within the year.

FAQs

How can I use "time of year" in a sentence?

You can use "time of year" to refer to a particular season or period within the year. For example, "Autumn is my favorite "time of year" because of the vibrant colors of the leaves."

What phrases are similar to "time of year"?

Similar phrases include "season", "period of the year", or "part of the year". You can use these alternatives depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey. For instance: "The holiday "season" is always hectic."

Is "time of the year" the same as "time of year"?

"Time of the year" and "time of year" are generally interchangeable, although "time of year" is more common. The inclusion of "the" doesn't significantly alter the meaning, but its absence makes the phrase slightly more concise.

What is the best "time of year" to visit Europe?

The best "time of year" to visit Europe depends on your preferences. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while summer is ideal for beach vacations but tends to be more crowded and expensive.