"it takes time" vs "it costs time"

Question

"it takes time" vs "it costs time"

Both phrases are correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. 'It takes time' is commonly used to indicate that a certain amount of time is needed for something to happen or be completed. On the other hand, 'it costs time' can be used to imply that time is being spent or used for a particular activity, often with a sense of sacrifice or loss.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

This phrase is used to express that a particular action or process requires a certain amount of time to be completed.

Examples:

Learning a new language takes time.
Building a strong relationship takes time.
It takes time to heal from a loss.
It takes time to adjust to a new environment.
Achieving success takes time and effort.

Alternatives:

It requires time
It demands time
It needs time
It involves time
It calls for time

This phrase is used to convey that time is being spent or used for a specific purpose, often with a connotation of sacrifice or loss.

Examples:

Working on this project costs time that could be spent with family.
Attending long meetings costs time that could be used more productively.
Traveling to work every day costs time and energy.
Volunteering at the shelter costs time but brings fulfillment.
Studying for exams costs time but leads to success.

Alternatives:

It consumes time
It uses up time
It takes up time
It requires time
It demands time

Answer 1

it takes time

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that a certain amount of time is needed for something to happen or be completed.

Answer 2

it costs time

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English. It is used to imply that time is being spent or used for a particular activity, often with a sense of sacrifice or loss.

"it takes time" vs "it costs time"

it takes time

it costs time

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