time to myself

USAGE SUMMARY

'time to myself' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the idea of having a moment or period of being alone. For example: During the holidays, I look forward to having some time to myself.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I like that time to myself.

The New York Times

If I have time to myself.

Independent

I like to have time to myself.

The New Yorker

But at least in Norway I got time to myself".

The Guardian - Sport

"I never had no time to myself," she said.

The New York Times

"I'm finding I need some time to myself," he said.

The New York Times

"I get time to myself, and I'm up anyway".

The New York Times

They call blouses shirts here, and I protest every time to myself.

The New York Times - Magazine

I work hard and play hard and I never get any time to myself.

The Guardian - Arts

I was always entertaining others, managing a staff, and I needed some time to myself.

The New York Times - Travel

"I just like to have time to myself, just thinking," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about needing personal space, using "time to myself" helps your audience understand that you are referring to intentional solitude for mental or physical rejuvenation.

Common error

While appropriate in everyday conversation and many written contexts, overuse of "time to myself" in highly formal or academic writing may sound too casual. Consider alternatives like "private time" or "a period of solitude" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time to myself" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It denotes a period dedicated to personal solitude and is often used as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition, indicating the purpose or need for such solitude. This aligns with Ludwig's examples, which show it used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Social Media

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "time to myself" is a commonly used phrase to express the need for solitude, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While appropriate in many situations, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in academic or professional writing. Consider related phrases such as "alone time" or "personal space" for variety or different connotations. Remember to use "time to myself" when emphasizing the need for relaxation, reflection, or personal activities, as it clearly communicates the desire for uninterrupted personal time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alone time

This alternative is shorter and more informal.

some me time

A more colloquial and self-centered way of expressing the need for personal time.

personal space

This refers more to the physical or emotional distance one needs from others.

private time

Focuses on the privacy aspect of being alone and undisturbed.

solitude

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the state of being alone.

time for self-reflection

Similar to introspection, but more explicit.

peace and quiet

This highlights the tranquility one seeks when desiring time alone.

a chance to recharge

Highlights the restorative aspect of spending time alone.

a moment of peace

This emphasizes the brevity of the desired solitude.

opportunity for introspection

Emphasizes using the time alone for self-reflection.

FAQs

How can I use "time to myself" in a sentence?

You can use "time to myself" to express a need for solitude or personal space, such as "I cherish the time to myself I get on my morning walks", or "After a long day at work, I really need some time to myself".

What's a more formal way to say "time to myself"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "private time", "a period of solitude", or "an opportunity for self-reflection" instead of "time to myself".

What are some similar phrases to "time to myself" that still emphasize personal relaxation?

If you want to emphasize the relaxing aspect of being alone, you could use phrases like "alone time", "peace and quiet", or "some me time".

Is it grammatically correct to say "times to myself"?

While grammatically understandable, "times to myself" is less common and idiomatic than "time to myself". The latter is generally preferred.