waning time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "waning time" is not commonly used in written English, but it is grammatically correct.
It can be used to refer to a period of decline or decrease, often in relation to phases of the moon or metaphorically to signify a diminishing period in life or events. Example: "As the project approached its deadline, the waning time left for completion added pressure to the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This observation tentatively supports the hypothesis of almost complete temporary immunity at the time of infection with immunity waning over time.

BMC Public Health

The kale craze is waning (about time).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Challenges of vaccine effectiveness and waning studiesBest time for a flu shot?

Harvard University

"Instead of the initial excitement waning over time, every day just kept getting more beautiful".

The New York Times

It's sad to say, but my Heroku love has been waning over time.

TechCrunch

All these data support the concept that some β-cells may survive for a long time and that their function may wax and wane over time.

Diabetes Care

"But it usually wanes over time.

The New York Times

But my devotion to the game waned over time.

The New York Times - Sports

Smokers showed willingness to try snus, but product interest waned over time.

Addictive Behaviors

The fact is, protection provided by vaccinations tends to wane over time.

Harvard University

The research on self-control shows that willpower, for all its benefits, wanes over time.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically correct, consider alternatives like "decreasing time" or "diminishing time" for better clarity and common usage. If your document tends to be literary or evocative prose, the phrasing can be effective.

Common error

Avoid using "waning time" in technical or scientific writing where precision is crucial. Opt for more specific terms like "decay rate" or "decline period" depending on the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "waning time" functions primarily as a noun phrase, potentially acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It refers to a period during which something is diminishing or decreasing. According to Ludwig AI, it can be used to refer to a period of decline or decrease.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "waning time" is grammatically correct, it is not commonly used in contemporary English. Ludwig AI indicates its acceptability but notes its potential awkwardness. It refers to a period of decline or decrease. For clearer communication, consider alternatives like "decreasing time" or "diminishing time", especially in technical contexts. While the phrase isn't incorrect, its infrequent usage and lack of strong contextual support suggest using it judiciously and being mindful of the audience. Consider this usage when the goal is literary prose or a creative work, where less common phrasings are more often found.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decreasing period

Focuses on the decline happening during a specific time frame.

diminishing time

Highlights the shrinking quantity of time available.

declining duration

Emphasizes the reduction in length of something over time.

receding time frame

Suggests that the time period is moving away or diminishing.

ebbing period

Draws a parallel to the ebbing tide, implying a gradual decrease.

dwindling timeframe

Highlights a reduction in the amount of time available.

lessening time

Focuses on the gradual reduction in time.

shortening period

Emphasizes that the time period is becoming shorter.

decaying duration

Suggests a decline or deterioration over time.

fading time

Implies a gradual disappearance or weakening of time.

FAQs

What does "waning time" mean?

"Waning time" refers to a period where something is decreasing or diminishing. It's often used metaphorically to describe a decline in strength, influence, or quantity over time.

Are there better alternatives to "waning time"?

Yes, depending on the context, alternatives like "decreasing time", "diminishing time", or "declining period" might be clearer and more commonly used.

Is "waning time" grammatically incorrect?

No, "waning time" is grammatically correct, but it is not a frequently used phrase in contemporary English. Its unusual nature may cause readers to pause or misinterpret the intended meaning.

How can I use "waning time" in a sentence?

You could use "waning time" to describe the end of a project's lifespan: "As the project approached its deadline, the "waning time" left for completion added pressure to the team."