How Do You Spell ILL-TIME?

Pronunciation: [ˈɪltˈa͡ɪm] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "ill-time" is often misspelled as "ill-timed", however the former is a legitimate variation with a different meaning. The IPA phonetic transcription of "ill-time" is /ɪl taɪm/. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is pronounced with a long "a" sound. "Ill-time" refers to something that was not done at the right time, whereas "ill-timed" means something was done at the wrong time. It's important to use the correct spelling to convey the intended meaning in writing.

ILL-TIME Meaning and Definition

  1. "Ill-time" is an idiomatic expression that refers to something happening or occurring at an unfavorable moment or inopportune timing. It denotes an event, action, or circumstance that is poorly timed or poorly suited to the situation, often resulting in negative consequences or untoward outcomes.

    "Ill-time" suggests a lack of synchronization between the occurrence and the context, indicating a misalignment or discrepancy between what is expected or desired and when it actually happens. It signifies a clash with one's plans, expectations, or preferred timing, leading to disappointment, inconvenience, or other adverse effects.

    The term can be applied to various situations, such as an ill-timed remark or comment that causes offense or arises in an inappropriate moment, an ill-timed decision that is made without considering crucial factors or circumstances, or an ill-timed event that disrupts or interferes with a planned sequence of actions or procedures.

    For example, an ill-timed joke during a serious conversation may undermine the gravity of the situation and offend others involved. Similarly, an ill-timed investment or business decision made without considering market trends may result in financial loss. Consequently, being ill-timed implies a lack of consideration for the appropriate moment or circumstances, leading to negative outcomes or consequences.

  2. A time unsuitable for the thing.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ILL-TIME

  • all-time
  • il-timed
  • illtimed
  • ill-timed
  • il time
  • Iltime
  • jll-time
  • kll-time
  • 9ll-time
  • 8ll-time
  • ikl-time
  • ipl-time
  • iol-time
  • ilk-time
  • ilp-time
  • ilo-time
  • ill0time
  • illptime
  • ill-rime
  • ill-gime

Etymology of ILL-TIME

The word "ill-time" does not have a specific etymology as it is a compound word created by combining the adjective "ill" and the noun "time". However, it can be analyzed separately:

1. "Ill" comes from the Old English word "yll" meaning "evil" or "badly". It evolved from Proto-Germanic "il-", which has related words in other Germanic languages such as German "übel" and Dutch "kwaad".

2. "Time" comes from the Old English word "tīma", derived from the Proto-Germanic "tīmô". It is theoretically linked to the Proto-Indo-European root "di-", meaning "cut" or "divide". Related words can be found in other Germanic languages, such as German "Zeit" and Dutch "tijd".