Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
time permits
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"time permits" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you will do something if you have enough time. For example: "I'd love to join you for lunch, but time permits only a quick coffee."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Books are also elementary, when time permits.
News & Media
This process is repeated as time permits.
Academia
Regression will be covered if time permits.
Academia
In other words, orthogonal time permits total recall.
News & Media
And to have fun with jets as time permits.
News & Media
When time permits, he will continue to write.
News & Media
I'll be poking my nose into those as time permits.
News & Media
I may discuss some additional topics as time permits.
Other topics may be included as time permits.
If time permits, Fourier integrals and transforms, Laplace transforms.
Academia
New chapters will be added as time permits.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "time permits" to clearly indicate that an action or decision is dependent on having sufficient time available. This helps manage expectations and provides a clear condition for proceeding.
Common error
Avoid overcommitting by assuming you will have ample time. Always realistically assess your schedule before using "time permits", as failing to do so can lead to unfulfilled promises and missed deadlines.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "time permits" functions as a conditional adverbial phrase, indicating that the action it modifies is dependent on the availability of time. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.
Frequent in
News & Media
39%
Academia
38%
Wiki
12%
Less common in
Science
5%
Formal & Business
1%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "time permits" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that an action is contingent upon the availability of sufficient time. As Ludwig AI affirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. It's frequently found in news and academic contexts, demonstrating its adaptability across registers. While "time permits" is appropriate for various settings, consider related phrases such as "if "time allows"" or "as "schedule permits"" to better suit formal tones or specific scheduling needs. Remember to realistically assess your availability before using the phrase to avoid overcommitment.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
if there's time
Directly expresses the condition of having enough time for something.
if time allows
Similar to "time permits", but emphasizes the allowance of time as a condition.
when time is available
Focuses on the availability of time as the deciding factor.
depending on the time available
Similar to 'if time allows' but slightly more verbose.
as time becomes available
Suggests a future point when time might open up.
should time allow
More formal and conditional, implying a possibility rather than a certainty.
if feasible timewise
Emphasizes the feasibility of something from a time perspective.
contingent on time
Highlights the dependency of an action on the availability of time.
as schedule permits
Uses "schedule" instead of "time", suitable for planned activities.
subject to time constraints
Indicates that time limitations may affect the possibility of doing something.
FAQs
How can I use "time permits" in a sentence?
You can use "time permits" to indicate that something will be done only if there is enough time available. For example, "I will review the report further, if "time permits"".
What is a more formal way to say "time permits"?
A more formal alternative to "time permits" could be "should "time allow"" or "as "schedule permits"", which are suitable for professional or academic contexts.
Is it correct to say "time permitting" instead of "time permits"?
"Time permitting" is also a correct and commonly used phrase, functioning as an absolute construction. It means "if "time permits"" or "if time allows".
What's the difference between "time permits" and "if time allows"?
The phrases "time permits" and "if "time allows"" are very similar in meaning and can often be used interchangeably. "Time permits" is slightly more concise, while "if time allows" provides a bit more emphasis on the conditional nature of the action.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested