waves of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "waves of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to convey the idea of the passage of time and its effects, often in a poetic or metaphorical context. Example: "As I walked along the shore, I felt the waves of time wash over me, reminding me of the fleeting moments of my life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He could feel the echo of his own terror and sorrow, and again his mind felt overrun by the lapping waves of time.

The New Yorker

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla .— Often, the most interesting thing about a person is the characteristic that lies beneath, that hidden thing that bobs up along the waves of time.

The New York Times

Among the highlights are "The Plastic King," a British movie in which a boy steals a coveted toy; "Snails," a comical Norwegian clay-animation piece about a snail who wants a dog; and "The Waves of Time," a Mexican film focusing on a girl whose grandfather is dying.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

By modelling the instabilities as two acoustic waves of time-varying amplitude travelling in opposite directions we demonstrate that there is a statistical prevalence for either standing m = 1 or spinning m = ±1 modes depending on flame spacing, equivalence ratio, and swirl configuration.

Combustion and Flame

Since many of the MYC target genes are TCFs themselves, 29 waves of time-dependent transcription are established through direct and indirect target gene regulation.

Cancer Management and Research

Other occupants are less delighted with the place: crusty Toby, a retired schoolteacher, repairs to her room, "haunted by little past moments," and Rachel, once a lawyer up North, sniffs at Southern manners and sweet tea, succumbing to "a wave of time sickness" for her former life.

The New York Times - Books

Ocean waves create seismic waves billions of times weaker than the seismic waves produced by earthquakes.

Los Angeles Times

A new ocean-going robot sails for months to spot the seismic sea waves ahead of time.

MIT Technology Review

Hernandez believes there is a huge need for apps such as this within the blind community and the success of Be My Eyes suggests it is a model of attracting a fresh wave of time-poor, digitally savvy volunteers that other organisations can replicate.

The Guardian

But it may illustrate a larger point about the need to be able to surf the waves of changing times.

Huffington Post

Beneath the disconnected pointillism, lies an energetic universe through which waves of history, light, time and number flow, at times in concert, at other times colliding.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "waves of time" to add a poetic or reflective tone to your writing, especially when discussing the impact of time on memories, emotions, or historical events.

Common error

Avoid using "waves of time" in scientific or technical writing where a more precise or literal description of temporal changes is required. Opt for phrases like "temporal progression" or "chronological sequence" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "waves of time" functions primarily as a metaphorical expression, used to describe the passage and impact of time on individuals, events, or memories. Ludwig examples showcase its use in contexts evoking feelings of nostalgia, historical reflection, or the relentless nature of change.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "waves of time" is a figurative expression that evokes the passage and impact of time, suitable for descriptive and narrative writing but less so for technical contexts. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically sound. It's most commonly found in news and media, and its use adds a layer of emotional depth to the concept of time. While alternatives like "tides of time" or "flow of time" exist, "waves of time" provides a specific poetic imagery for discussions on memories, history, and change. When used appropriately, the phrase enhances the reader's connection to the subject matter by highlighting time's transformative influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tides of time

Similar to the original phrase, using "tides" to evoke the ebb and flow, and cyclical nature of time.

flow of time

Emphasizes the continuous and uninterrupted nature of time's progression.

currents of time

Suggests time as a flowing stream, carrying events and memories along.

passage of years

Focuses on the linear progression and accumulation of years.

relentless march of time

Highlights the unstoppable and unforgiving aspect of time's advancement.

sweep of history

Focuses on the broader historical context and the impact of time on civilizations and events.

lapse of time

Highlights the interval or duration that passes.

span of time

Refers to a specific duration or period.

process of aging

Emphasizes the effect of time on living beings and their transformation.

everlasting continuum

Points to the endless and unbroken nature of time stretching into the infinite future.

FAQs

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

You can use "waves of time" to poetically describe the feeling of time passing, such as "The old photograph made me feel the "waves of time" washing over me".

What is a good alternative to "waves of time"?

Alternatives include "tides of time", "flow of time", or "passage of years", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "waves of time" a common expression?

While not as common as some other expressions, "waves of time" is a recognizable and evocative phrase often used in literature and creative writing to describe the passage and impact of time.

What kind of writing is "waves of time" best suited for?

"Waves of time" is particularly well-suited for creative writing, reflective essays, or historical narratives where a sense of the emotional or transformative power of time is desired. It might be less appropriate for technical or scientific contexts.