time passing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time passing" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe the passage of time, typically in abstract terms. For example, "It was strange how quickly time was passing, and yet nothing seemed to really change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Can you feel time passing?

The Guardian - Tech

It is time passing emptily really".

The Guardian

She also shows us time passing.

The New York Times - Arts

I am aware of the time passing.

The New Yorker

We are confronted here with time passing.

The New York Times

The Oscars are a study in time passing and the denial of time passing.

The New Yorker

To visit Chernobyl today is to feel time passing.

The New York Times

At the same time, passing it has its risks too.

The New York Times

The aunts and uncles constantly chatter to forget time passing.

The New York Times

He told Treays: don't fret about time passing.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He ranks fourth on the all-time passing yards list.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "time passing" to evoke a sense of duration, change, or the impact of temporal progression in descriptive writing. For example, to describe the effects of aging or the feeling of nostalgia, incorporating "time passing" can add depth.

Common error

Avoid using "time passing" when you simply want to indicate the current time or a specific moment. "Time passing" implies a duration or a change over time, not a static point in time. If you want to know about static point use "What time is it?" for example.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time passing" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI illustrates, it describes the abstract concept of temporal progression or duration. It evokes a sense of duration and change.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "time passing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that denotes the progression and experience of time. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into various contexts, ranging from academic discussions to news reports and personal reflections. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science-related content, it functions as a noun phrase, often conveying a sense of duration, change, or the impact of temporal progression. Remember to use this phrase when referring to a prolonged experience and the transformation that time brings. While alternatives like "passage of time" or "lapse of time" exist, "time passing" remains a simple and effective choice for describing the continuous flow of temporality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

passage of time

Emphasizes the process of time moving forward.

time elapsing

Highlights the gradual disappearance or consumption of time.

progression of time

Highlights the sequential and ongoing nature of time.

lapse of time

Focuses on the interval or duration that has passed.

the march of time

Suggests a relentless and inevitable forward movement of time.

days going by

Focuses on the daily progression of time.

hours drifting by

Describes time moving slowly and aimlessly.

seasons changing

Refers to the cyclical nature of time marked by seasonal transitions.

years unfolding

Suggests the gradual revelation and development over a long period.

fleeting moments

Emphasizes the transient and ephemeral nature of time.

FAQs

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

You can use "time passing" to describe the experience of time moving, often with an emotional or observational connotation. For example, "She felt the weight of "time passing" as she looked at old photographs."

What are some alternatives to "time passing"?

Alternatives include "passage of time", "lapse of time", or "progression of time". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different uses. "The time is passing" is a complete sentence that emphasizes the continuous action of time moving. "Time passing" is a phrase often used to describe a feeling, observation, or condition related to time's progression. Consider the "context" in which you're using the phrase.

How does "time passing" differ from "spending time"?

"Time passing" refers to the natural progression of time itself, whereas "spending time" refers to actively engaging in an activity during a certain period. They are related to "time", but they describe different aspects.