Is It Correct to Use 'Some' in Time Expressions?

When it comes to expressing time, the use of the quantifier 'some' can sometimes leave one scratching their head. Is 'In some five minutes' grammatically correct? Or should we stick to more precise expressions?

Common Perceptions

At first glance, many might be tempted to say that 'In some five minutes' is incorrect. Their reasoning often revolves around the belief that 'some' implies an undefined or unspecified quantity, whereas five minutes is a specific and measurable period of time. However, as we will explore in this article, the exact applicability of 'some' in time expressions can be more nuanced than it seems.

Why 'Some' Might Be Omitted

The traditional advice is to remove 'some' to ensure grammatical correctness. Sentences like 'In five minutes' or 'In a few minutes' are often considered more appropriate because they convey a clear and specific timeframe. These alternatives not only sound natural but also enhance the clarity of the message.

Example Sentences

Example 1: 'In five minutes.'
In this case, the speaker is giving a precise timeframe - five minutes - which is specific and leaves no room for ambiguity. It is a straightforward and unambiguous way to convey that the action will occur in a defined time period.

Example 2: 'In a few minutes.'
This phrase is slightly more flexible. It indicates a short, unspecified period of time but is generally perceived as more polite and less rigid than 'in five minutes.' It is commonly used in situations where a more lenient timeframe is acceptable.

Challenging Established Norms

While the advice to remove 'some' is widely accepted, there are instances where its presence in time expressions might not be as problematic as many believe. The use of 'some' can vary in formality and clarity, depending on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the listener.

An Example to Consider

Consider the following example: '11 years ago, my ex-wife drove out the driveway, having said "See you in five minutes." And that was the last I saw of her.'

This sentence demonstrates that 'see you in five minutes' is a specific timeframe. However, the presence of 'some' in 'In some five minutes' can be interpreted as an indication of an undefined or possibly uncertain period, which aligns with the speaker's subsequent realization that the exact timing was less important than the outcome. In this context, 'some' does not detract from the clarity of the message but rather adds a nuance that reflects the speaker's perspective.

When to Use 'Some'

While 'some' may not always be the best choice in time expressions, it can be used to convey a more casual or vague timeframe, especially in spoken language. In formal or written contexts, however, it is generally advisable to use more specific phrasing to ensure clarity and adherence to grammatical standards.

Contextual Examples

Formal Context:
In a business meeting or a formal setting, it is best to stick to more specific timeframes, such as 'In five minutes', to avoid any potential misunderstandings.

Casual Context:
In a more relaxed conversation, you might say 'In some time' or 'In a bit' to indicate that something will happen soon but without a specific timeline.

Conclusion

The use of 'some' in time expressions is a matter of context and personal preference. While 'In five minutes' or 'In a few minutes' are generally the most grammatically correct and clear options, 'In some five minutes' can also be acceptable in certain situations. Understanding the nuances of these expressions can enhance your communication and make your writing and speech more effective.

Key Takeaways:
- 'In some five minutes' can be used in casual situations to convey an undefined timeframe.
- 'In five minutes' and 'In a few minutes' are more specific and suitable for formal contexts.
- The choice of expression depends on the formality of the setting and the intended clarity of the message.