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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Time” — 8 Other Ways to Say It

The continuous flow of minutes, hours, days, years that measure how long something takes or lasts.

IPA: /taɪm/Level: A1Register: neutralPart of speech: noun

Meanings of Time — Pick the Sense You Need

Time has 3 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.

  1. Meaning #1 as a noun

    The continuous flow of minutes, hours, days, years that measure how long something takes or lasts.

  2. Meaning #2 as a noun

    A specific moment in the day shown by hours and minutes, or when something happens.

  3. Meaning #3 as a noun

    An instance when something happens; how many times something occurs or is repeated.

How to Pronounce Time

IPA: /taɪm/ Stress: o

Stress on first syllable /ˈtaɪm/. Rhymes with 'climb' and 'prime'.

Full pronunciation guide for time →

3 Synonyms for Time (Meaning #1 — as a noun)

These synonyms work when you use time as a noun. Meaning: The continuous flow of minutes, hours, days, years that measure how long something takes or lasts.

period

/ˈpɪəriəd/
noun A1

Any amount of time; a portion of time from start to finish.

Example: The school has a summer period.

3 Synonyms for Time (Meaning #2 — as a noun)

These synonyms work when you use time as a noun. Meaning: A specific moment in the day shown by hours and minutes, or when something happens.

moment

/ˈmoʊmənt/
noun A1

A very brief amount of time lasting only seconds.

Example: Wait a moment, I need to find my keys.

hour

/ˈaʊr/
noun A1

A unit of time. One hour is the same as 60 minutes.

Example: The meeting lasts for one hour.

occasion

/əˈkeɪʒən/
noun A2

A special event or moment when something takes place.

Example: The wedding was a special occasion for the whole family.

3 Synonyms for Time (Meaning #3 — as a noun)

These synonyms work when you use time as a noun. Meaning: An instance when something happens; how many times something occurs or is repeated.

occasion

/əˈkeɪʒən/
noun A2

A special event or moment when something takes place.

Example: The wedding was a special occasion for the whole family.

instance

/ˈɪnstəns/
noun B1

One example or time when something happens; a specific case that shows what you're talking about.

Example: That incident was an instance of poor customer service that we must avoid.

Smart Synonyms for Time — When to Use Each

duration

specific measured length of an event or process

period

recognizable span of time with clear beginning and

span

extent or scope of time measured between two

How to Use Time and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • I don't have enough time to finish this project today. A1
  • Over time, friendships can become stronger and more meaningful. A2
  • The study examined how time affects human behavior and learning. B1
  • What time is it? It's 3 o'clock. A1
  • We agreed to meet at the same time next week. A2

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Time

What is another word for "time"?

Common synonyms for "time" include: duration, period, span, moment, hour.

What can I say instead of "time"?

Try one of these alternatives: duration, period, span, moment, hour. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "time" formal or informal?

"time" is generally used in neutral contexts.

When should I use "time" instead of "duration"?

Use "time" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "duration" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

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