times clash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "times clash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two events or schedules conflict with each other. Example: "I have a meeting scheduled for 3 PM, but it seems that my doctor's appointment is at the same time, so the times clash."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The greatest risk may be that popular expectations rise too fast and Mr Modi's grand promises of "good times" clash with the need to make difficult political decisions reforming tax policy for example, or changing the law on land acquisition.

The Economist

Activism is a noble cause that, at times, clash with the powers that be who possess little or no appetite to be engaged critically with certain level of scrutiny and transparency.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

These images have overlapped, and at times clashed.

The New York Times

His trip had two, at times clashing, goals.

The New York Times

The police and firefighters have at times clashed at emergency scenes.

The New York Times

The urge to reassure and inform with care were at times clashing impulses.

The New York Times

At times clashes between squatters and the police led to public disturbances.

The New York Times

The consulting deals raised the eyebrows of some longtime Southern Union shareholders, who have at times clashed with Mr. Lindemann.

The New York Times

Lawyers for Mr. Torricelli have at times clashed bitterly with the two main prosecutors on the case, Michael Savage and Matthew W. Friedrich.

The New York Times

Mr. Lawsky, a former terrorism prosecutor known for his aggressive style, has at times clashed with the more staid philosophy entrenched at the Treasury Department.

The New York Times

But as one of Mr. Obama's main budget negotiators in the last few years, Mr. Lew has at times clashed with Republicans, particularly in the House.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "times clash", ensure the context clearly indicates which specific times are in conflict. Be specific to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "times clash" without specifying the events or schedules that are conflicting. Providing context is crucial for understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "times clash" functions as a noun phrase indicating a conflict or overlap in schedules. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing conflicting commitments or events. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "times clash" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that means two or more events are scheduled to occur at the same time, creating a conflict. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and it is most commonly found in News & Media. While "times clash" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, more formal alternatives like "schedule conflict" or "events coincide" may be preferred in certain situations. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the conflicting events. Common errors involve overgeneralization, so always provide adequate context for understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

schedule conflict

Focuses specifically on the conflict between scheduled events.

overlapping schedules

Highlights the overlap in time between different schedules.

conflicting events

Emphasizes the incompatibility of events occurring at the same time.

events coincide

A more formal way of saying events happen at the same time.

simultaneous occurrences

Highlights that the occurrences are simultaneous, often used in a more formal context.

dates overlap

Specifically refers to the overlapping of dates, suitable when discussing calendar events.

appointments overlap

Used when specifically referring to appointments.

programmes coincide

Programme is the British spelling, and can be used when the events are organized in a programme.

events are concurrent

Highlights that the events are concurrent, often used in formal and technical context.

activities overlap

Refers to activities that share same time slot.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "times clash" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases like "schedule conflict", "events coincide", or "simultaneous occurrences" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "time clash" instead of "times clash"?

While "time clash" might be understood, "times clash" is generally more grammatically correct when referring to multiple instances or schedules conflicting. "Schedule conflict" is also a good alternative.

What does it mean when someone says "times clash"?

It means that two or more events or appointments are scheduled for the same time, creating a conflict where you cannot attend both. You may want to resolve the schedule conflict.

Can "times clash" be used in both formal and informal settings?

Yes, "times clash" can be used in both formal and informal settings, though more formal alternatives like "schedule conflict" or "events coincide" might be preferred in highly formal contexts.