we were pressed for time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were pressed for time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that you have limited time to complete a task or activity. Example: "We were pressed for time, so we had to rush through the final stages of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The coaches at the front of the plane acted as if we were pressed for time and driving to the second game of our back-to-back Ivy League weekend.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Whether or not we're pressed for time, how do we ensure our choices are the right ones?

Huffington Post

It's highly unlikely we will ever use these cards again, but $5 is $5 and it's not like we're pressed for time.

Vice

It's highly unlikely we will ever use these cards again, but $5 is $5, and it's not like we're pressed for time.

Vice

Compounding the problem for teachers who said they were pressed for time was the fact that I stuttered.

The New York Times

We know you're pressed for time, so make your workout even more efficient by eliminating POPSUGAR Fitness's seven big gym time-wasters from your routine.

Huffington Post

"We find that a lot of mothers and other women who are pressed for time are looking for an easy and safe solution to create that cozy, warm house," Ms. Wohle said.

The New York Times

And Kejriwal is pressed for time.

The New Yorker

Suddenly, Djokovic himself is pressed for time.

The New York Times - Sports

ANDERS BORG is pressed for time.

The Economist

If you are pressed for time, sit at the bar.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were pressed for time", ensure the context clearly explains why time was limited. Providing this context helps the reader understand the urgency or constraints involved.

Common error

Avoid using "we were pressed for time" when simply conveying busyness without actual urgency. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact and can make writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were pressed for time" functions as an adverbial phrase indicating a condition or constraint under which an action was performed. This clarifies the circumstances surrounding an event, explaining why something was done quickly or incompletely. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were pressed for time" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a sense of urgency due to limited time. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. Although less frequent, its primary use is found in news and media. The phrase functions adverbially, explaining conditions under which actions occur and justifying decisions made quickly. Alternatives include "we were short on time" and "we were in a hurry". When using the phrase, provide context to enhance understanding and avoid overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were short on time

Emphasizes the lack of sufficient time.

we were in a hurry

Highlights the need to act quickly.

we were running out of time

Focuses on the depletion of available time.

time was of the essence for us

Indicates that time was a crucial factor.

we had a tight schedule

Suggests a busy and inflexible timetable.

we were up against the clock

Implies a race against a deadline.

we were pushed for time

Highlights external pressure to complete something quickly. 'Pushed' instead of 'Pressed'.

we had little time to spare

Indicates a minimal amount of extra time.

we were working under a time constraint

Highlights that time was a limited parameter.

we were against the deadline

Highlights that the deadline represented a problem for us.

FAQs

What does "we were pressed for time" mean?

The phrase "we were pressed for time" means that there was a sense of urgency because the time available to complete a task was limited. It implies a need to hurry or make efficient use of the time available.

What can I say instead of "we were pressed for time"?

You can use alternatives like "we were short on time", "we were in a hurry", or "we were running out of time" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we were pressed for time"?

Yes, "we were pressed for time" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used in both spoken and written communication.

How can I use "we were pressed for time" in a sentence?

You can use "we were pressed for time" to explain why a task was rushed or incomplete, or to justify a decision made under pressure. For instance, "We were pressed for time, so we had to skip some steps in the process".