we could use more time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we could use more time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a need for additional time to complete a task or project. Example: "Given the complexity of the project, we could use more time to ensure everything is done properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Succession is a complicated thing and we felt, meaning the board and I, [that] we could use more time to not only to spend on succession but to create a better transition so we mutually agreed to add another year," Iger said at the SCALE technology and entertainment conference, which was hosted by the USC Marshall and Annenberg schools.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

We all could use more time and less to do, especially in our gardens.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In Iteration 1, we observed and noticed from feedback that the students could use more time when an event (i.e., an eruption) occurred, but not in-between (i.e., during normal monitoring tasks) therefore we kept the streaming speed the same for all subsequent iterations.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

I could use more time, but it will need luck.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

If some compositions taste as if they could use more time to rehearse, most compel you to clean your plate.

The Washington Post

It served as the regular season's primary dress rehearsal, and both teams learned that they could use more time and practice.

The New York Times - Sports

Naomi Drew, an educator who wrote the forthcoming book "Peaceful Parents, Peaceful Kids" (Kensington Publishers, $14), thinks children could use more time just making mud pies.

The New York Times

The delay in moving on Baghdad has a silver lining because there were indications that the American forces could use more time to prepare for an onslaught on Baghdad, especially with the onset of ferocious sandstorms and bad weather.

The New York Times

While Jungk utilized several days to complete his visioning workshops and could use more time for the preparation phase, many professors are unable to use as much time for this kind of workshop.

European Journal of Futures Research

"Columbo" was relaxation television, which, frankly, we could use more of in prime time, choked as it is with frenetic reality shows and densely plotted dramas.

The New York Times - Arts

"And at other times, we could use more".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "we could use more time", clearly state the reason why additional time is needed to provide context and justification.

Common error

Avoid using "we could use more time" as a generic excuse. Always provide specific reasons for needing additional time to maintain credibility and demonstrate accountability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we could use more time" functions as a polite request or suggestion for additional time. Ludwig AI confirms that it is usable in written English. It's a way of expressing that the current time allocation is insufficient for the task at hand.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we could use more time" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to indicate a need for additional time to complete a task or project. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While versatile, it's important to provide context and justification when using this phrase, especially in professional or formal communications. Alternatives like "we need more time" or "additional time would be appreciated" can be used depending on the specific context and desired level of formality. The phrase is prevalent across news, science, and academic domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we need more time

Directly states the need for more time, more straightforward.

we require additional time

More formal way of expressing the need for more time.

we would benefit from more time

Highlights the positive impact of having more time.

we could do with more time

Informal way of saying more time would be helpful.

more time would be appreciated

Expresses gratitude for the possibility of receiving more time.

an extension would be helpful

Specifically requests a time extension on a deadline.

we are running short on time

Indicates a current lack of sufficient time.

time is of the essence

Emphasizes the importance of time and the need to utilize it efficiently.

we are pressed for time

Highlights the urgency and lack of time available.

we are up against the clock

Illustrates the pressure of a looming deadline.

FAQs

What does "we could use more time" mean?

The phrase "we could use more time" means that additional time would be beneficial or helpful to complete a task, project, or achieve a goal. It implies that the current amount of time is insufficient.

How to use "we could use more time" in a sentence?

You can use "we could use more time" to express a need for an extension or additional resources. For example, "Given the scope of the project, "we could use more time" to ensure thoroughness."

What can I say instead of "we could use more time"?

You can use alternatives like "we need more time", "we require additional time", or "more time would be appreciated" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "we could use more time" in formal communication?

While "we could use more time" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives such as "we require additional time" or "an extension would be helpful" may be more suitable in professional settings.