"the time was passing" vs "the time was passing by"

Question

"the time was passing" vs "the time was passing by"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'The time was passing' is a simple statement indicating the passage of time, while 'The time was passing by' adds a bit more emphasis on the continuous nature of time passing. Both are commonly used and convey a similar meaning.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate the simple passage of time.

Examples:

As we sat there, the time was passing quickly.
I didn't notice how the time was passing during the meeting.

Alternatives:

the time passed
time was ticking away
time was slipping away
time was flying by
time was moving on

This phrase is used to emphasize the continuous nature of time passing.

Examples:

As we chatted, the time was passing by quickly.
The time was passing by, but I was lost in my thoughts.

Alternatives:

the time was passing
time was ticking away
time was slipping away
time was flying by
time was moving on

Answer 1

the time was passing

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

the time was passing by

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"the time was passing" vs "the time was passing by"

the time was passing

the time was passing by

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