what a time

USAGE SUMMARY

'what a time' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express strong emotion at a moment in time. For example, "What a time to be alive!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What a time to be alive.

Independent

What a time to be a woman!

Independent

#JeSuisChien What a time to be alive.

Independent

What a time capsule.

The Guardian - Film

And what a time.

The Guardian - Travel

What a time for sports.

The New Yorker

What a time that was".

The New York Times - Sports

What a time to be alive, huh?

Yale University

And what a time to produce it!

The Guardian - Sport

But what a time to choose.

The New York Times - Sports

And what a time to get it.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "what a time". It's often used to reflect on significant changes or memorable experiences, adding a layer of depth to your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "what a time" in formal or highly professional settings where a more objective or neutral tone is required. This phrase is best suited for situations where expressing emotion is acceptable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what a time" functions primarily as an exclamatory expression, used to convey a strong feeling or opinion about a particular period or event. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what a time" is a versatile exclamatory phrase used to express a range of emotions about a particular period or event. As Ludwig AI highlights, its grammatical correctness and broad usage across various contexts make it a reliable expression. While generally considered neutral to informal, its occurrence in reputable news sources demonstrates its adaptability. Remember to consider the context and audience when using this phrase, ensuring that it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your communication. You can use it to express strong emotion at a moment in time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

such a time

Emphasizes the quality or nature of the time being referred to, similar to highlighting its significance.

those were the days

Recalls past times with fondness or nostalgia, often implying that those times were particularly enjoyable.

the good old days

Refers to a past period remembered for its positive qualities and simpler times.

a memorable period

Highlights the unforgettable nature of a specific duration or era, focusing on its lasting impact.

an era to remember

Suggests that a certain era is noteworthy and deserves to be remembered for its unique characteristics or events.

golden age

Implies a period of great prosperity, achievement, or happiness.

a period of great change

Focuses on the transformative aspects of a certain duration, indicating significant shifts or developments.

the spirit of the age

Captures the prevailing mood, attitudes, or beliefs of a particular period.

the temper of the times

Refers to the dominant characteristics or prevailing attitudes of a particular era.

historical moment

Highlights the importance or significance of a particular instant or event in the context of history.

FAQs

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

You can use "what a time" to express your feelings about a particular moment or era. For example, "What a time to be alive, with all these technological advancements!" or "What a time we had during that summer vacation!".

What's a similar expression to "what a time"?

Similar expressions include "such a time", "those were the days", or "the good old days", which all convey a sense of reflection or nostalgia.

Is "what a time" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "what a time" is generally more suitable for informal or conversational contexts. Formal writing may require a more neutral or objective tone.

Can "what a time" be used sarcastically?

Yes, "what a time" can be used sarcastically to express frustration or disbelief about a negative situation. The tone of voice and context will indicate the intended meaning.