want of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "want of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express a lack of time available to do something. Example: "I couldn't finish the project due to want of time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It limited dispensation to the demands of necessity, where want of time precluded the obtaining of a warrant.

Cornell University

It may well be; but on any given occasion, it could also be a knee jerk -- born of prevailing tendencies, distractions, and want of time.

Huffington Post

They have not agreed - but not for the want of time.

The Guardian

Some are deemed too weak by Colbert's demanding standards, some are put on hold for want of time on a given night and are then forgotten, and some are merely left behind as the show is swept along with the relentless news cycle.

The New York Times - Magazine

The want of time was no sufficient reason against giving this subject a mature consideration.

University of Chicago

No person will have occasion to complain of the want of time who never loses any.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Preferably you want lots of time in a calm empty room.

The Guardian - Arts

He's flexible, so tell him what you want ahead of time.

The New York Times - Travel

Anna reminded her mother that they also want plenty of time to play, without any planned activities.

The New York Times

Decide what you want ahead of time.

HuffPost

When shopping for make-up, it's good to know what you want ahead of time.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more common alternatives such as "lack of time" or "shortage of time" for clarity, especially in formal writing. While "want of time" is grammatically correct, it may sound archaic or less direct to modern readers.

Common error

Avoid using "want of time" excessively in contemporary writing, as it can make your text sound stilted or unnatural. Modern readers may find it less accessible than simpler phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "want of time" functions as a noun phrase indicating a deficiency or absence of available time. As shown by Ludwig, it is used to explain reasons for incompletion or delay. Ludwig AI confirms this is a valid English expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "want of time" is a grammatically correct phrase that means a lack of time. However, as highlighted by Ludwig, it's less common in modern English compared to alternatives like "lack of time" or "shortage of time". While understandable, "want of time" might sound slightly archaic or formal to contemporary readers. Ludwig's examples show that the phrase appears in news and academic contexts, but its overall frequency is relatively uncommon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of time

Replaces "want" with a more common synonym, resulting in a more straightforward expression of the same concept.

shortage of time

Similar to "lack of time", this alternative uses "shortage" to emphasize the insufficient amount of time.

insufficient time

Emphasizes the inadequacy of time, suggesting that it's not enough to meet the needs or demands.

time constraints

Focuses on the restrictions imposed by time, rather than the absence of time itself.

limited time

Highlights the finite nature of the available time, suitable when emphasizing the boundary.

time is limited

Shifts the focus to the state of time being restricted, implying a need for efficient use.

running out of time

Emphasizes the progressive depletion of time, creating a sense of urgency.

time pressure

Highlights the stress and urgency created by the limited amount of time available.

time crunch

An informal way to indicate being under extreme time constraints, often used in casual contexts.

lack of opportunity

Focuses on what could not be done because time was lacking, not strictly about time itself but a good semantic fit.

FAQs

What does "want of time" mean?

The phrase "want of time" means a lack of time or a shortage of time. It indicates that there is not enough time available to do something.

How can I use "want of time" in a sentence?

You can use "want of time" to explain why something could not be completed or was done hastily. For example: "The project was left unfinished due to "lack of time"".

What are some modern alternatives to "want of time"?

Modern alternatives include "lack of time", "shortage of time", or "limited time". These phrases are more commonly used in contemporary English.

Is "want of time" formal or informal?

"Want of time" leans toward being a slightly more formal or even archaic expression. In most modern contexts, "lack of time" is generally preferred for its straightforwardness.