All Time or All-Time: Which One Should You Use?

Good writing means using words correctly. Many people wonder whether to write “all time” or “all-time” in their sentences. This small difference actually changes your meaning completely.

The hyphen is the key to understanding these two forms. One version describes things, while the other talks about time periods. This guide shows you exactly when to use each one.

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All Time or All-Time? Which is Correct?

Both versions are correct depending on how you use them. The difference comes down to what job they’re doing in your sentence. Think of them as two different tools.

All-time with a hyphen describes something, like “all-time record.” Meanwhile, “all time” without a hyphen talks about a long period, like “greatest of all time.” The context tells you which one to pick.

Here’s an easy rule to remember. Use the hyphen when you’re putting it directly before a word like “high,” “low,” or “favorite.” Skip the hyphen when you’re talking about how long something has lasted or existed.

All Time: Meaning and Usage

The phrase “all time” means forever or across entire history. You don’t need a hyphen because it works as a time reference. People use this when talking about something that lasts from the past into the future.

This version talks about how long things have been around. For example, “This has been my favorite for all time” means it’s always been your favorite. It shows something ongoing and permanent.

Here’s a simple test to check if you’re using it right. Try putting “of all time” after the thing you’re describing. If the sentence makes sense, you’re probably using it correctly.

You’ll see this phrase with words like greatest, best, or favorite. It emphasizes that something matters across the whole history. Writers use it when comparing things from different time periods.

All-Time: Meaning and Usage

All-time with a hyphen describes something directly. It always needs that hyphen to work properly. This version means something is better than everything else in history so far.

Use this form when talking about records or achievements that break previous ones. The hyphen shows that both words work together as one describing word. You must put it right before the thing you’re describing.

You’ll often see this with words like high, low, favorite, record, or bestseller. Saying “all-time high” means the highest point ever reached. Similarly, “all-time low” means the lowest point in history.

This hyphenated version adds historical importance to achievements. It turns regular accomplishments into history-making moments. Always remember to put it directly before the word it’s describing.

Examples of Using “All Time” in A Sentence

Looking at examples helps you understand how to use “all time” naturally. These sentences show it working as a time reference. Each example talks about periods rather than describing specific things.

Examples:

He is the greatest actor of all time
This song has been my favorite for all time
This recipe is the best I’ve tried in all time
Shakespeare is one of the greatest writers of all time
There has never been a more exciting game in all time
For all time, this will stay my favorite memory

Notice how these use “of all time” or “for all time” patterns. The phrase comes after or connects to words without describing them directly. This helps you know when to skip the hyphen.

These sentences talk about things being permanent or lasting across history. The time reference lets things flow naturally when discussing timeless qualities. This form works well for statements that are always true.

Examples of Using “All-Time” in A Sentence

The hyphenated form makes strong statements about record-breaking achievements. These examples show all-time describing things directly. Each sentence puts the hyphen before the word it’s changing.

Examples:

The temperatures hit an all-time high this summer
He broke the all-time record in the sprint
Her album became an all-time favorite among fans
Company profits reached an all-time low last quarter
The team achieved an all-time win in the championship
She set an all-time record for points scored this season

Each example puts all-time right before the word it describes. This creates clear statements about historical achievements. The hyphen tells readers both words work together.

These sentences highlight moments that beat all previous records. The describing word adds historical weight to accomplishments. Writers use this when something represents the best or worst ever recorded.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct usage of ‘all time’ versus ‘all-time’ in a sentence?

Use “all time” when talking about time periods like “greatest of all time.” Use “all-time” with a hyphen when describing records like “an all-time high” directly before words.

In which contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase ‘of all time’?

Use “of all time” when comparing things across entire history. It works for statements like “best athlete of all time” when talking about someone’s place in history.

Is it at all time or at all times?

The correct way is “at all times” showing something happens continually. For example, “Keep your ID on you at all times” means you should always have it.

How do I know if I need the hyphen in all-time?

Ask if you’re describing something directly before it. If you’re talking about record-breaking achievements like “all-time high,” use the hyphen. For time references, skip it.

Can all-time be used after a noun?

No, all-time must come directly before the word it describes. Putting it after breaks the grammar rules and makes your sentence incorrect always.

Conclusion

Understanding all time or all-time makes your writing clearer and more professional. The hyphen changes these words from a time reference into a describing word. Use all-time when talking about records or achievements directly before words. Choose “all time” when referring to long periods or throughout history. Practice these simple rules until picking the right one feels natural and easy in your writing.