22 Other Ways to Say “If Time Permits”

The phrase “if time permits” is often used to indicate that an action or event can only occur when there is enough time available.

Whether planning meetings, setting agendas, or discussing potential activities, various alternatives can add nuance or conform to the tone of conversation.

Here are 22 alternative expressions to “if time permits,” with explanations for each.

For Formal or Professional Contexts

1. Should our schedule allow it…

• Example: “Should our schedule allow it, we will delve into the budget analysis in detail.”
• Explanation: This version holds a formal undertone suitable for professional settings.

2. Given adequate time…

• Example: “Given adequate time, we hope to cover all the points listed in the agenda.”
• Explanation: Implies that the availability of enough time is a prerequisite for the task at hand.

3. Time permitting, of course…

• Example: “We will discuss each proposal in turn, time permitting, of course.”
• Explanation: This phrase adds a hint of formality, acknowledging that the discussion is dependent on time constraints.

Expressing Flexibility

4. If the moment allows…

• Example: “We could take a short break, if the moment allows.”
• Explanation: Suggests a more fluid approach to planning, emphasizing a natural pause.

5. Where time is available…

• Example: “We will provide additional training on the new software where time is available.”
• Explanation: Used to suggest that an activity will be fit into the schedule if possible.

6. Assuming time is on our side…

• Example: “We will extend the workshop by a day, assuming time is on our side.”
• Explanation: Indicates that the course of action is hopeful but contingent on time availability.

Highlighting Priority

7. Time willing, this will be our priority…

• Example: “Time willing, addressing client feedback will be our priority before the launch.”
• Explanation: It positions a task as significant while recognizing that there could be time constraints.

8. If we can spare the time…

• Example: “A tour of the facility will be provided if we can spare the time after the meeting.”
• Explanation: This expression indicates that a particular event is desirable but not the main focus.

9. Barring any time constraints…

• Example: “Barring any time constraints, we aim to offer personalized consulting to each participant.”
• Explanation: Expresses a plan that’s in place if not hindered by a tight schedule.

Suggesting Potential for Additional Activities

10. Should the opportunity arise…

• Example: “Should the opportunity arise, we’ll also explore potential partnerships.”
• Explanation: Connotes that something extra might happen if the circumstance is favorable.

11. If we find ourselves with extra time…

• Example: “If we find ourselves with extra time, team-building activities will be conducted.”
• Explanation: Used when additional time that hasn’t been planned for might become available.

12. In the event that we have additional time…

• Example: “In the event that we have additional time, further questions will be entertained.”
• Explanation: It outlines a provisional plan for using any unexpected surplus time.

When Being Considerate of the Schedule

13. If our timeline allows…

• Example: “We would appreciate everyone’s input if our timeline allows.”
• Explanation: A courteous way to consider the allotted schedule for an activity or meeting.

14. In a suitable pause in our agenda…

• Example: “We can revisit the previous topic in a suitable pause in our agenda.”
• Explanation: It specifies that a gap in the planned schedule will be the appropriate time for further discussion.

15. Permitting our timetable…

• Example: “We may add a follow-up session, permitting our timetable.”
• Explanation: Shows that the addition of activities is dependent on whether the overall timetable allows for it.

Emphasizing Dependence on Time

16. If we are granted the time…

• Example: “Panel discussions will be extended if we are granted the time.”
• Explanation: Hints at a need for time to be available in order to proceed as desired.

17. Dependence on time will determine…

• Example: “The detail to which we can go into these issues is dependence on time.”
• Explanation: This phrase explicitly states that time is a determining factor for the depth of engagement.

18. Contingent upon our timeframe…

• Example: “Additional data analysis will be completed, contingent upon our timeframe.”
• Explanation: Signifies that the action is conditional and dependent on the amount of time available.

Casually Alluding to Time

19. If there’s time to play with…

• Example: “We’ll have a quick Q&A at the end if there’s time to play with.”
• Explanation: A casual phrase suggesting that the action will happen only if there is leftover time.

20. Should time be kind…

• Example: “A comprehensive tour of the campus will be provided should time be kind.”
• Explanation: Personifies time as a factor that could be favorable if conditions are right.

Acknowledging Uncertainty with Time

21. In the instance that time is generous…

• Example: “We’ll include a hands-on demonstration in the instance that time is generous.”
• Explanation: Indicates that a generous amount of available time is not guaranteed but can influence the agenda.

22. If the clock is on our side…

• Example: “Additional topics will be covered if the clock is on our side.”
• Explanation: Indicates that time availability plays a crucial role in what can be covered or achieved, much like an ally.

These alternatives express the conditional availability of time in polite and varied terms.

Depending on whether the context is formal, casual, focused on priority, or accounts for flexibility, choosing the right expression can help you adjust your communication to suit the situation and set realistic expectations regarding time management.