at a time

idiom

1
: during one particular moment
I can only do one thing at a time.
Please speak one at a time and not all at once.
We carried the boxes two at a time up the stairs.
2
: during one period of time without stopping
She can sit and read for hours at a time.

Examples of at a time in a Sentence

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These significant losses can contribute to financial insecurity at a time when many consumers are already struggling to keep up with rising costs and are worried about running out of money in retirement. Sarah O'Brien, CNBC, 13 Dec. 2025 Drivers should only perform one action at a time, such as braking, turning, or accelerating, to avoid sliding on slick roads. Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 12 Dec. 2025 As Jews became more integrated into wider society, Hanukkah served as an opportunity to celebrate at a time of year when their Christian neighbors were doing the same. Joshua Shanes, The Conversation, 11 Dec. 2025 If mixture is too thick, add hot water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until mixture is desired consistency. Elizabeth Mervosh, Southern Living, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for at a time

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Cite this Entry

“At a time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20a%20time. Accessed 17 Dec. 2025.

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