time will fly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time will fly" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an expression used to suggest that time passes quickly, especially when one is enjoying themselves. For example: "We'll have so much fun at the picnic today; time will fly!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Time will fly.

The Guardian

"I think the time will fly by.

The Guardian

Upgrade to the fully loaded model with battery-powered stereo speakers, and time will fly.

The New York Times

"The time will fly by, and one day there won't be anything to dash to".

The New York Times

It also strains credulity right from the first scene, when the two girls start musing on how the time will fly until they are grown up.

The New York Times

Not only that, you'll enjoy "Game of Thrones" and exercise more together — you won't feel guilty watching it, and time will fly at the gym.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Of course, the only time Jarrah will fly a passenger jet for real will be his first, and only, flight.

The Guardian - Film

It's the average length of time people will fly before crashing, if lots and lots of them do it every day.

The Economist

At that time they will fly to Washington, on a scheduled New York Airways flight with Dr. Zane and the phobia aides aboard.

The New York Times

In a few days' time I will fly to Brazil for the Football World Cup.

Forbes

As we head towards October, the Ibiza season is coming to an end, the closing parties are drawing closer and the likes of Ariel, Corinne, Jamie and the thousands of other part-time residents will fly back to their lives in the real world.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "time will fly" when you want to express that a period will seem shorter than it actually is, usually because the experience is enjoyable or engaging. For example, "If you enjoy the book, the time will fly by."

Common error

Avoid using "time will fly" in situations where you want to emphasize the slowness or dragging nature of time. For example, it would be inappropriate to say "Time will fly" when describing a boring or tedious task.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time will fly" functions as an idiomatic expression, predicting that time will pass quickly, typically due to an engaging or enjoyable experience. Ludwig AI confirms the acceptability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

45%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "time will fly" is a common and correct idiomatic expression used to convey the idea that a period will pass quickly, often due to enjoyment or engagement. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a valid phrase in English. The phrase is frequently found in news articles and general writing, as well as in informal contexts. To ensure clarity, avoid using this expression when describing tedious or unpleasant situations where time seems to drag. Consider alternatives such as "time will pass quickly" or "the days will rush by" to fine-tune the nuance you wish to express. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "time will fly" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time will pass quickly

Focuses on the speed of time's passage; a more literal alternative.

the time will speed by

Similar to 'pass quickly' but with a sense of acceleration.

time will slip away

Emphasizes the unnoticed passage of time.

the hours will melt away

Implies a smooth, almost effortless passage of time.

the days will rush by

Highlights the feeling of time moving very rapidly.

the minutes will tick by fast

Focuses on the minutes passing quickly.

it will be over before you know it

Indicates a swift and perhaps unexpected conclusion to a period.

before you know it, it'll be done

Highlights the swift completion of an event or task.

it will all be a blur

Suggests that the experience will be so fast that details are lost.

the wait won't be long

Downplays the duration of a waiting period.

FAQs

How can I use "time will fly" in a sentence?

You can use "time will fly" to express that a period will pass quickly, often because of enjoyment or engagement. For example, "With such great company, the "time will fly" by!"

What is a good alternative to "time will fly"?

Alternatives to "time will fly" include phrases like "time will pass quickly", "time will slip away", or "days will rush by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the expression "time will fly"?

It's appropriate to use "time will fly" when anticipating a period that you expect to be enjoyable or engaging. It suggests that the period will seem shorter than its actual duration. Avoid using it for unpleasant or tedious situations.

Is "time will fly" a formal or informal expression?

"Time will fly" is generally considered an informal expression. It is suitable for everyday conversation and casual writing but may not be appropriate for highly formal or academic contexts.