when time is of the essence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when time is of the essence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that a deadline is critical and must be adhered to. Example: "In this contract, it is stated that when time is of the essence, all parties must fulfill their obligations promptly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

They insist that critically ill patients shouldn't need to go through the FDA when time is of the essence.

University of California, Berkeley

It can also allow for a faster, more efficient adoption process, especially when time is of the essence.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

When time is of the essence, a ban now may be worth far more than damages later.

The Economist

Converging questions can be important when time is of the essence or you are dealing with someone who is theoretical.

Harvard Business Review

When time is of the essence, throwing assorted people together on a team and asking them to find a way to work effectively together is counterproductive.

Harvard Business Review

But nothing in the bill would prevent law enforcement from doing its job or change exceptions in existing law for acting without a warrant in emergencies, when time is of the essence.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

It tested our ability to manage our biases when time was of the essence to many.

Forbes

"Tenants think it's broker lingo when we say, 'Time is of the essence; better move fast,' " Mr. Hochlerin said.

The New York Times

Remember, when planting bare-root time is of the essence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Those emergency management people say that when it comes to evacuation, time is of the essence.

The New York Times

When diagnosing a case of Ebola, time is of the essence.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "when time is of the essence" in situations where delays could lead to significant negative consequences. Ensure that the context clearly establishes the stakes involved, making the urgency explicit.

Common error

Avoid using "when time is of the essence" in contexts where the urgency is already obvious or implied. Overuse can diminish the phrase's impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Reserve it for situations where the criticality of time needs to be strongly emphasized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when time is of the essence" functions as an adverbial clause, modifying a main clause by indicating the specific condition under which the statement in the main clause is particularly relevant or critical. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when time is of the essence" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adverbial clause that signifies the critical importance of acting swiftly. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's most frequently found in news, academic, and business contexts. While appropriate for formal and professional settings, it should be used judiciously to avoid overuse. Consider related phrases like "when speed is critical" or "when urgency is paramount" for variety. When writing, ensure the context clearly establishes the stakes involved. The provided examples from Ludwig illustrate its diverse applications in real-world scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when speed is critical

Focuses on the necessity of speed rather than the importance of time itself.

when urgency is paramount

Emphasizes the high level of urgency required.

when every second counts

Highlights the value of each unit of time.

in time-critical situations

Frames the situation as being defined by the criticality of time.

when promptness is essential

Stresses the need for immediate action.

when immediate action is required

Highlights the necessity of taking action without delay.

when there's no time to lose

Indicates a situation where any delay would be detrimental.

when swift action is crucial

Emphasizes the importance of acting quickly and efficiently.

when a quick turnaround is vital

Highlights the importance of achieving results rapidly.

under pressing circumstances

Focuses on the demanding nature of the situation, implying the need for speed.

FAQs

How can I use "when time is of the essence" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of acting quickly. For example, "When time is of the essence, decisions must be made rapidly."

What phrases are similar to "when time is of the essence"?

Alternatives include "when speed is critical", "when urgency is paramount", or "when every second counts", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "when time is of the essence" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "when time is of the essence" is generally more suitable for formal or professional contexts. In informal settings, simpler phrases like "act fast" or "hurry up" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "when time is of the essence" and "in a hurry"?

"In a hurry" suggests a general need for speed, while "when time is of the essence" indicates that speed is crucial to achieving a specific, important outcome or averting a negative consequence. The latter phrase carries a higher degree of urgency and significance.