Tijdsbestek

Tijdsbestek is a Dutch noun that denotes the period of time within which something happens or must be completed. It refers to the overall duration or time window for a task, project, or process, rather than a specific moment. The term is commonly used in contexts such as contracts, tenders, project management, research, and urban planning.

Etymology and nuance: tijdsbestek combines tijd (time) and bestek (scope or specification). The sense is a defined span of time set by a plan, contract, or set of requirements. In practice, tijdsbestek highlights the boundaries of time allowed for an activity, rather than detailing exact timings of individual steps.

Usage: In contracts or bids, the tijdsbestek defines until when proposals can be submitted or when work must be completed. In project management or research, it indicates the overall duration of the project or study. The phrase is also used to discuss planning horizons, such as short, medium, or long tijdsbestek.

Relation to related terms: Tijdsbestek is related to timeframe, time window, and duration. It is distinct from a deadline (the latest permissible date) and from termijn (a term or period that can refer to a point in time or a span) and from tijdschema (schedule), which specifies when activities occur within the tijdsbestek.

Examples: “Het tijdsbestek voor het onderzoek is drie maanden.” “De aanbesteding heeft een tijdsbestek tot 1 juni.” “Binnen dit tijdsbestek worden verschillende fasen doorlopen.”