times have changed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'times have changed' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to refer to how a particular situation or thing has changed over time. For example, "My grandmother grew up without access to modern technology, but times have changed and now everyone has access to smartphones and computers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Well, times have changed.

Forbes

How times have changed.

The New York Times

And times have changed.

The New York Times

Naturally, times have changed.

Independent

Times have changed extraordinarily.

Independent

The times have changed.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

But times had changed.

The New Yorker

But the times had changed.

The New York Times

"Times had changed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Time has changed him.

Independent

Time has changed.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "times have changed" to introduce a contrast between past practices or beliefs and current ones, indicating progress or evolution.

Common error

While "times have changed" is a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound unoriginal. Consider more specific language to describe the change you're referencing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "times have changed" functions as an independent clause or sentence fragment used to indicate that a situation, practice, or belief is no longer the same as it was in the past. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, providing various examples from news articles, blogs, and magazines.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "times have changed" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote a shift from past conditions to present ones. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts, serving to introduce discussions about societal, technological, or normative evolutions. While generally neutral in register, writers should be mindful of its potential to sound cliché and consider more specific language when appropriate. Remember to check for additional examples and use cases on Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

things are different now

Focuses on the current state being unlike the past, highlighting a contrast in conditions.

the world is not the same

Emphasizes a global shift, implying a more widespread alteration.

the landscape has shifted

Suggests a change in circumstances or environment, often used in business or political contexts.

things have evolved

Highlights a gradual process of development and change.

we live in a different era

Indicates a significant change in societal norms or values.

the game has changed

Implies a fundamental alteration in rules or strategies, commonly used in competitive situations.

that was then, this is now

Directly contrasts a past situation with the present.

eras have passed

Emphasizes a long period of transformation, suggesting the end of one major phase and the beginning of another.

the situation has morphed

Implies a transformation, often unexpected, in a specific scenario.

the climate is altered

Highlights a shift in prevailing attitudes or conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "times have changed" in a sentence?

You can use "times have changed" to highlight a difference between past and present situations. For instance, "My grandfather used to walk miles to school, but "times have changed", and now kids take the bus".

What's a good alternative to "times have changed"?

Alternatives to "times have changed" include "things are different now", "the world is not the same", or "the landscape has shifted", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "times have changed"?

While generally acceptable, "times have changed" may sound cliché in certain contexts. Consider whether a more specific description of the change would be more impactful.

Can "times have changed" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "times have changed" can be used in formal writing, but it's important to ensure the tone and context are appropriate. In very formal or academic settings, consider more precise language.