The phrase "the times" can be replaced with a variety of synonyms depending on the context. For instance, "the era", "the epoch", and "the age" all refer to a long period of time characterized by particular circumstances or events. In a more specific context, "the present day", "the current era", or "the contemporary age" can be used to refer to the current time period. "The zeitgeist" can be used to refer to the prevailing cultural, political, and philosophical trends of the time. Finally, "the duration", "the length of time", or simply "time" can be used to indicate the amount of time that has passed. Ultimately, the most appropriate synonym will depend on the intended meaning and context of the sentence.