timelines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "timelines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a schedule or a sequence of events in chronological order. Example: "The project manager presented the timelines for each phase of the project during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the candidate's personal accounting for this figure in this campaign ad is based on different figures and long-range timelines stretching as long as a decade — which in two cases are based on studies that did not even evaluate Romney's economic plan.

The Guardian

Auernheimer spent cash on putting racial hatred into the timelines of Twitter users.

The Guardian - Tech

Explanation of timelines and grading process.

The Guardian

Many new aerospace technologies are highly capital- and labour-intensive, have long development timelines, serve markets that are nascent (if they exist at all) and rely on launch systems that can be slow, expensive and unreliable.

The Economist

The timelines were worked out in consultation with American and Russians experts with full knowledge of the OPCW's capabilities.

The Economist

These accounts trawl imgur, Reddit, 500px, Flickr, Pinterest and other sources, grabbing posted photos and associated text, and then repost them to their own timelines.

The Economist

The philosophies, technologies, timelines and business models involved in constructing Shanghai Tower and Sky City could not be more different.

The Economist

The OPCW is in the uncomfortable position of relying on the military success of regime forces, supported by local militias led by Hizbullah, the Lebanese party-cum-militia, to meet its timelines.

The Economist

A typical local doctor, Mr Edwards adds, will see "two or three cancer cases a year"—nowhere near enough to improve strategies or timelines for diagnosis.Bringing in the private sector to help with data crunching and to manage contracts and facilities might help, but such ideas are often forestalled by shrill charges of creeping privatisation.

The Economist

Turkish museums left out Armenian kingdoms and dynasties from their timelines.

The Economist

Emergency aid can only be released once a crisis has been formally declared, whereas development funding tends to follow rigid plans and timelines.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing project management or historical events, use "timelines" to clearly outline the sequence and duration of activities or developments.

Common error

Avoid using "timelines" when referring to specific target dates for completion. "Deadlines" indicate when tasks must be finished, while "timelines" illustrate the entire project's progression.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "timelines" is as a plural noun, referring to multiple sequences of events displayed in chronological order. Ludwig confirms this usage with numerous examples, primarily in news and media contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "timelines" is a grammatically sound and frequently used plural noun that denotes a sequence of events displayed chronologically. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to offer structure and clarity, especially in contexts related to News & Media, Formal & Business and Science. While "timelines" is appropriate for both formal and informal settings, it is important not to confuse it with "deadlines". Instead of "timelines", you can also use "chronologies", "schedules", or "timeframes" depending on the nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chronologies

Refers to a record of events in the order of their occurrence, emphasizing a detailed and sequential account.

schedules

Focuses on planned activities or events and their designated times, often related to project management or appointments.

timeframes

Highlights the duration or period within which events are expected to happen or a project should be completed.

projected dates

Implies a future-oriented perspective, indicating when specific events or milestones are anticipated to occur.

development cycles

Specifically refers to stages of growth and advancement, particularly in technological or biological contexts.

event sequences

Highlights the order and progression of events, often used in historical or narrative contexts.

milestones

Emphasizes significant points or achievements within a longer process or project.

agendas

Focuses on a list of items to be discussed or actions to be taken, often in a meeting or formal setting.

programs

Highlights a structured set of activities or procedures designed to achieve a specific goal.

duration

Focuses solely on the length of time that something lasts or continues.

FAQs

How can I use "timelines" in a sentence?

You can use "timelines" to refer to a sequence of events arranged in chronological order, like in this example: "The candidate's personal accounting for this figure in this campaign ad is based on different figures and long-range "timelines" stretching as long as a decade."

What are some alternatives to the word "timelines"?

Alternatives to "timelines" include "schedules", "timeframes", or "chronologies", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "timelines" and "deadlines"?

"Timelines" refer to a sequence of events over a period, while "deadlines" are specific dates or times by which something must be completed. "Timelines" provide a broader view of project progression, while "deadlines" mark individual milestones.

Is it appropriate to use "timelines" in formal writing?

Yes, "timelines" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly in contexts related to project management, historical analysis, or strategic planning. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English.