time passes

USAGE SUMMARY

'time passes' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as a more poetic way of saying that time is moving on or that a period of time has elapsed. For example: "And just like that, time passes and the leaves began to change their colors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

TIME passes.

The New York Times

Time passes differently.

The New Yorker

Time passes quickly.

The New Yorker

Joni responds, "Time passes.

The New Yorker

So the time passes.

The New York Times

The time passes very quickly.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Time passed.

The New York Times

Time passed slowly.

The New York Times - Arts

Time passing, and family.

The New York Times

Time passed in silence.

The New Yorker

Some time passed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "time passes" to create a reflective or melancholic mood, especially when discussing change, loss, or aging.

Common error

Avoid using "time passes" excessively in scenes requiring a sense of urgency or action, as it can slow down the narrative pace. Opt for more dynamic verbs to convey the passage of time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time passes" primarily functions as an intransitive verb phrase, indicating the progression of time without acting upon a direct object. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable phrase in written English. Examples show its use in describing changing circumstances and fading memories.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "time passes" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to denote the progression of time. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its versatility in written English. It carries a neutral to literary tone and is frequently used in News & Media and Science contexts. While synonyms like "time elapses" or "time goes by" exist, "time passes" offers a reflective quality, making it suitable for discussing change and the inevitable flow of life. However, avoid overuse in fast-paced narratives where more dynamic verbs might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time elapses

Replaces "passes" with a more formal synonym, suggesting a measurable duration.

time goes by

Uses a more common and casual expression for the progression of time.

time marches on

Emphasizes the relentless and unstoppable nature of time's progression.

time slips away

Focuses on the idea of time being lost or wasted as it progresses.

days turn into weeks

Highlights the gradual accumulation of time, often in a monotonous way.

seasons come and go

Relates the passage of time to the cyclical changes in nature.

years roll on

Suggests a long, continuous, and often uneventful passage of time.

the clock ticks

Emphasizes the constant and measured progression of time.

moments fade away

Focuses on the ephemeral nature of individual moments within the larger flow of time.

eras unfold

Emphasizes the progression of time in the context of significant historical periods.

FAQs

How can I use "time passes" in a sentence?

You can use "time passes" to indicate the progression of time, often with an implication of change or loss. For example, "Time passes, and memories fade" or "Time passes slowly when you're waiting for something important."

What are some alternatives to "time passes"?

Alternatives include "time elapses", "time goes by", or "time marches on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "time is passing" instead of "time passes"?

Yes, both are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Time is passing" emphasizes the ongoing process, while "time passes" is a more general statement about the nature of time.

What's the difference between "time passes quickly" and "time flies"?

"Time passes quickly" is a literal description of the rate at which time is progressing. "Time flies" is an idiom that expresses the feeling that time is passing quickly, often when one is enjoying oneself.