at a time like this vs a time like this

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'At a time like this' is used to refer to a specific moment or situation, while 'a time like this' is more general and can refer to any similar time or situation.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 1337 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a specific moment or situation.

"at a time like this"

This phrase is used to emphasize the particular moment or situation being discussed. It is often used to express feelings, reactions, or actions in response to a specific event.

Examples:

It's important to come together as a community at a time like this.
I can't believe he would say something like that at a time like this.

Show examples from the web [+]

Family's important at a time like this.
It's what people need at a time like this.
We should be together at a time like this.
Not at a time like this.
No, we... we don't need to take you away from your son at a time like this.
And you should be thinking about your wife at a time like this.
You shouldn't be alone at a time like this.
Not at a time like this.
That must be very difficult at a time like this.
It's normal to look for answers at a time like this.
Especially at a time like this.
Airport security is your friend at a time like this.
Very careless, straying out at a time like this.
It's true that studies are important at a time like this...
Even at a time like this.
'Cause that is pretty important too at a time like this.
One shouldn't have children at a time like this.
I can't leave at a time like this.
And all at a time like this.
I know it sounds selfish at a time like this, but I was just really looking forward to happy time for our little family.

Alternatives:

at this moment
in a situation like this
during a time like this
in times like these
in such a moment

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a general similar time or situation.

"a time like this"

This phrase is used to describe a period or situation that is similar to the current one being discussed. It is more general and can be used in a variety of contexts.

Examples:

It's hard to find hope in a time like this.
We need to stick together during a time like this.

Show examples from the web [+]

Family's important at a time like this.
It's what people need at a time like this.
We should be together at a time like this.
Not at a time like this.
At a time like this when Sam Roffe is dead.
No, we... we don't need to take you away from your son at a time like this.
You shouldn't be alone at a time like this.
Not at a time like this.
That must be very difficult at a time like this.
It's normal to look for answers at a time like this.
Especially at a time like this.
At a time like this everything seems natural and soft, almost.
Airport security is your friend at a time like this.
Very careless, straying out at a time like this.
It's true that studies are important at a time like this...
Even at a time like this.
'Cause that is pretty important too at a time like this.
One shouldn't have children at a time like this.
At a time like this, most of us are afraid.
I can't leave at a time like this.

Alternatives:

such a time
this kind of time
a moment like this
a situation like this
times like these

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at a time like this vs a time like this