while there is still time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "while there is still time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest taking action before an opportunity or deadline passes. Example: "We should make our decision quickly, while there is still time to secure the best deal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But his bosses must be tempted to cut him while there is still time.

The New York Times - Sports

Policy makers need to listen to the voices of independent scientists while there is still time.

The New York Times

I'm trying to get the facts right while there is still time.

The New Yorker

Speak and hug from your heart and soul — while there is still time.

The New York Times

How about bringing back an enlarged version of that, er, while there is still time?

The Guardian - Arts

The immediate challenge is to stop the downward spiral while there is still time.

Harvard Business Review

While there is still time to act, the window of opportunity is finite and shrinking".

The Guardian

"The whites had better understand this while there is still time.

The Guardian

Congress should pass it while there is still time to get ready for 2010.

The New York Times

While there is still time, state and local officials should fix the provisional-voting problems.

The New York Times

Periodically running through the checklist can forewarn project leaders of reputational landmines while there is still time for remediation.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while there is still time" to create a sense of urgency and encourage prompt action. This phrase is effective when addressing situations where delay could lead to negative consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "while there is still time" in contexts where the situation isn't truly time-sensitive. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while there is still time" functions as an adverbial phrase of time, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the urgency or importance of acting within a limited timeframe. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

14%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "while there is still time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as an adverbial modifier, emphasizing the importance of prompt action before an opportunity is lost or a negative outcome becomes inevitable. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Its usage spans from news and media to academia and science, demonstrating its versatility across various contexts. When using "while there is still time", it is essential to convey a genuine sense of urgency and relevance to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "before it's too late" or "now is the time" can be employed to provide stylistic variation. It is best suited to contexts where the timing of an action has genuine consequences and is appropriate for a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

before it's too late

This alternative is a more direct and common way of expressing urgency.

while the opportunity exists

This alternative emphasizes the presence of an opportunity that may not last.

while the chance remains

This alternative highlights the diminishing possibility of something happening.

in the window of opportunity

This alternative focuses on a specific timeframe for action.

at this juncture

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes a critical point in time.

now is the time

This alternative is a straightforward call to action, emphasizing immediacy.

lest we miss our chance

This alternative adds a sense of warning about the potential consequences of inaction.

before the clock runs out

This alternative uses a metaphor to highlight the limited time available.

with time running short

This alternative emphasizes the scarcity of time.

as long as we can

This alternative suggests acting within the limits of what is still possible.

FAQs

How can I use "while there is still time" in a sentence?

Use "while there is still time" to emphasize the importance of acting quickly before an opportunity is lost or a negative outcome becomes unavoidable. For example, "We need to address climate change "while there is still time" to prevent irreversible damage."

What are some alternatives to "while there is still time"?

You can use alternatives like "before it's too late", "while the opportunity exists", or "now is the time" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "while there is still time" in formal writing?

Yes, "while there is still time" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when conveying a sense of urgency or emphasizing the importance of timely action. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall message.

What is the difference between "while there is still time" and "before it's too late"?

"While there is still time" suggests that there is a window of opportunity that is closing, whereas "before it's too late" implies that a point of no return is imminent. They are similar, but "while there is still time" can be slightly less dramatic.