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 span in question
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "time span in question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific duration of time that is being discussed or analyzed in a particular context. Example: "The results of the study were only applicable to the time span in question, which was the last five years."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
So many tears shed in such a short time span in the low-slung tan building.
News & Media
Five time series were generated for each time span in both DD and LD conditions.
Science
This difference may be due to the time span of the questions: our additional questions ask about musculoskeletal pain in the previous seven days whilst the BPI questionnaire focusses on pain in the current 24 hour period.
Science
In determining the best time span for this analysis, we encountered a difficult question: When and for how long does depression occur?
Science
When time span increases in local regression, MSE is decreased.
In summary, the bats did not perform strictly balanced exchanges in isolated pairs, and symmetry in sharing was most obvious over longer time spans as found in primate cooperation., Answering this question requires crossing an unfortunate semantic quagmire.
Evolution cannot be measured in a time span that short.
News & Media
In a time span of mere hours, a soldier goes from combat to home.
News & Media
The immense size and time span of the Google n-gram dataset allows us to examine this question in detail.
Science & Research
Another idea would be to require specific issue polls to put questions into different forms, from different angles which should also be published, to be sure the question is not leading, and over enough of a time span to offer more than a momentary peek at opinion in response to breaking news.
News & Media
As in the DASH questionnaire four questions were asked to assess if the symptoms had led to difficulties in playing, but the time span of interest was extended to 12 months.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase "time span in question", ensure the context clearly establishes which specific time span you are referring to. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific start and end dates or referencing a well-defined event that marks the beginning of the period.
Common error
Avoid using "time span in question" without clearly defining the time span within the immediate context. Ensure the reader doesn't have to guess which period you're referring to.
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "time span in question" functions as a noun phrase that specifies a particular duration under consideration. It serves to identify a distinct period relevant to the context of the discussion, as supported by Ludwig's examples that highlight its use in various analytical contexts.
Frequent in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "time span in question" is a grammatically sound way to refer to a specific period being considered or analyzed. While Ludwig indicates it's valid, but lacks in prevalence. The phrase, though precise, can be replaced with shorter alternatives like "duration under consideration" or "relevant time period" depending on the context. When using the phrase, ensure that the timeframe is clear to avoid any ambiguity. Despite its correctness, you should be mindful of the audience and the purpose of your writing when opting to use "time span in question" over simpler options.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
duration under consideration
Replaces "time span" with "duration", making it more generic and formal.
period being examined
Substitutes "time span" with "period" and uses "examined" instead of "in question".
interval in focus
Uses "interval" for "time span" and "in focus" to highlight the specific attention.
time frame under discussion
Replaces "time span" with "time frame", implying a structured period being talked about.
relevant time period
Emphasizes the relevance of the time period, suggesting importance to the context.
specified duration
Highlights that the time span is precisely defined.
pertinent timeframe
Similar to 'relevant time period' but slightly more formal.
particular time period
Emphasizes the distinctness of the timeframe.
designated time frame
Highlights that the timeframe was established ahead of time for something.
the period at issue
Uses "at issue" to emphasize the importance of the time span being discussed.
FAQs
How can I use "time span in question" in a sentence?
Use "time span in question" to refer to a specific period of time that is being discussed or analyzed. For example, "The study focused on the economic impact during the "time span in question", which was from 2008 to 2012."
What are some alternatives to "time span in question"?
You can use alternatives such as "duration under consideration", "period being examined", or "relevant time period" depending on the context.
Is it better to use "timeframe" or "time span in question"?
The choice between "timeframe" and "time span in question" depends on the formality and specificity you want to convey. "Timeframe" is generally more concise and informal, while "time span in question" is more formal and emphasizes a specific period under consideration.
What does "in question" add to "time span"?
The phrase "in question" adds emphasis that the "time span" is the specific one being discussed or analyzed, distinguishing it from other possible time spans. Without "in question", it becomes a generic time period.
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
60%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested