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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
Nothing but time
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "nothing but time" is correct and usable in written English
It is generally used to mean "all we have is time" and implies that there is no other remedy or solution to a given problem. For example, "We have nothing but time to solve this issue, so let's take our time and get it right."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Rabalais said, "She has nothing but time".
News & Media
Right now I have nothing but time.
News & Media
You ain't got nothing but time!
News & Media
Prison is nothing but time.
News & Media
Now there is nothing but time.
News & Media
At bottom, they are nothing but time with your fellows.
News & Media
And in it he saw our affliction: Nothing but time.
News & Media
Through it all, he had nothing but time to watch what was going on around him.
Nothing but time on your hands!" No one seemed to catch the double meaning.
News & Media
In other words, what do you do when life gives you nothing but time and coconuts?
News & Media
"Usually we share coffee or drinks, but here we shared nothing but time".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
Use "nothing but time" to emphasize a lack of other resources or opportunities, highlighting that time is the only factor available for a situation.
⚠ Common error
Avoid using "nothing but time" when you actually have other resources available. The phrase should only be used when time is the sole or primary factor at play.
Linguistic Context
The phrase "nothing but time" functions as a noun phrase emphasizing the abundance or sole availability of time as a resource or factor. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.
Expression frequency: Very common
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
70%
Academia
15%
Formal & Business
5%
⚠ Less common in
Encyclopedias
3%
Reference
2%
Science
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "nothing but time" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that emphasizes the abundance or sole availability of time in a given situation. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts and is frequently found in news and media, academia, and other sources. When using this phrase, make sure that time is indeed the primary or only available resource to avoid misinterpretation. Consider alternatives like "all the time in the world" or "plenty of time" for nuanced expressions.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
All the time in the world
Emphasizes the vast quantity of time available.
Plenty of time
Suggests having more than enough time for something.
Time to spare
Indicates having extra time beyond what's needed.
An abundance of time
Highlights the plentiful nature of available time.
Unrestricted time
Implies time that is not limited or constrained.
Endless time
Suggests a seemingly infinite amount of time.
More alternative expressions(6)
FAQs
How can I use "nothing but time" in a sentence?
Use "nothing but time" to convey that time is the only available resource or factor in a situation. For example: "They had "nothing but time" to prepare for the exam."
What is an alternative to saying "nothing but time"?
Alternatives include phrases like "all the time in the world", "plenty of time", or "time to spare", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
When is it appropriate to use the phrase "nothing but time"?
Use "nothing but time" when you want to emphasize that time is the only resource or factor at play. It's suitable when other resources are limited or unavailable.
Is "nothing but time" formal or informal?
The phrase "nothing but time" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its suitability depends more on the overall tone and context of the writing.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested