time slows down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time slows down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when describing how time seems to pass slowly or linger in certain moments. For example: "When I'm watching the sunset, time seems to slow down and I can take in every moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Time slows down," he says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Time slows down and time accelerates".

The New Yorker

But even for them time slows down midfall.

The New York Times

As in a car accident, time slows down.

The New York Times

When things travel at speeds close to the speed of light, time slows down.

Cornell University

Ahh, well it's not true to say that time slows down close to a black hole.

Cornell University

Time slows down for objects that move at close to the speed of light.

Cornell University

"Theater is one of the few places where the rush of time slows down," she said.

The New York Times

Time slows down to a continuous present, an unending series of build-ups and climaxes.

The New York Times - Magazine

B doesn't know this, because he isn't wearing a watch, and for him time slows down.

The New Yorker

These are the sort of situations in which time slows down.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "time slows down" in contexts where you need to express precise, objective measurements of time. It's best suited for describing feelings and perceptions.

Common error

Don't confuse the subjective experience of "time slows down" with objective, measurable time. While it reflects a real feeling, it doesn't alter physical time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time slows down" functions primarily as a descriptive statement. It portrays a subjective experience where the perception of time is altered, making it seem as if events are unfolding at a reduced pace. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in describing such experiences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

23%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "time slows down" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the subjective experience of time passing more slowly. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage across various contexts. It's particularly prevalent in News & Media and Academia, often used to depict moments of intense focus, stress, or altered perception. While not scientifically literal in most everyday contexts, it effectively communicates a widespread human experience. Alternatives include "time stretches" or "time dilates", but "time slows down" remains a versatile and readily understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time stretches

Focuses on the elongation or expansion of perceived time.

time dilates

Emphasizes a scientific or relativistic alteration of time.

time seems to drag

Highlights the feeling of time passing slowly, often due to boredom or anticipation.

time crawls

Conveys a sense of extremely slow and tedious passage of time.

time stands still

Indicates a moment where time seems to stop completely.

moments linger

Suggests that particular moments are drawn out and remain present.

pace of time decreases

Formally expresses the reduction in the rate at which time seems to pass.

time loses its urgency

Highlights a shift in perception where time feels less pressing or immediate.

clock seems to tick slower

Focuses on a direct, sensory experience of time moving slowly.

time becomes elastic

Suggests time's ability to stretch and compress, emphasizing its subjective nature.

FAQs

How can I use "time slows down" in a sentence?

You can use "time slows down" to describe moments when you perceive time as moving more slowly than usual, such as "During the accident, "time slows down" and you notice every detail".

What does it mean when people say "time slows down"?

When people say ""time slows down"", they generally mean that their perception of time has altered, making it seem as if events are unfolding at a reduced pace. This often occurs during moments of stress, excitement, or deep concentration.

What can I say instead of "time slows down"?

You can use alternatives like "time stretches", "time dilates", or "time seems to drag" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "time slows down" a scientifically accurate statement?

While the experience of ""time slows down"" is a common phenomenon, it's typically a subjective perception rather than an objective alteration of time itself. However, Einstein's theory of relativity does explain how time can physically slow down under certain extreme conditions, like near black holes.