Time is one of the most precious resources we have, and the English language has many idioms to reflect this. Idioms for time add color and meaning to our language, helping us convey abstract concepts about time in a succinct, relatable way. Whether you’re talking about something happening quickly, over a long period, or under pressure, these idioms allow you to express your thoughts with more vividness and flair.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular idioms for time, explain their meanings, and provide examples of how to use them. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone looking to improve your everyday communication, understanding these idioms will help you sound more fluent and natural in English.
What are Idioms for time?
Idioms for time are expressions that use time-related concepts to convey a message. These idioms often have meanings that cannot be deduced from the individual words themselves, making them tricky for learners of English. They provide a fun and efficient way to communicate complex ideas quickly and memorably.
Some idioms for time refer to specific moments in time, while others express how much time has passed or how we view the passage of time. These expressions allow us to express feelings, experiences, and situations in a way that is more relatable to our listeners.
Common Idioms for Time
Let’s dive into a list of idioms for time, categorized by their meanings. Each idiom will include an explanation and a sentence example to help you understand how they are used.
1. Against the clock
Meaning: Doing something with limited time, often racing to finish something before a deadline.
Example: Sarah had to finish her homework against the clock before dinner.
Other ways to say “racing against time, under pressure.
2. Once in a blue moon
Meaning: Something that happens very rarely.
Example: We only go to the amusement park once in a blue moon.
Other ways to say “rarely” or hardly ever.
3. In the nick of time
Meaning: Just before it’s too late; at the last possible moment.
Example: Tommy arrived at the bus stop in the nick of time and caught the bus.
Other ways to say “at the last moment, just in time.
4. Time flies
Meaning: Time seems to pass very quickly.
Example: I can’t believe it’s already summer vacation; time flies!
Other ways to say “Time goes by quickly” or Time rushes.
5. Time is money
Meaning: Time should be used wisely because it is valuable.
Example: Dad always says, “Time is money,” whenever we waste time.
Other ways to say “Every minute counts” and Time is precious.
6. In the long run
Meaning: Over a long period of time.
Example: Eating healthy will benefit you in the long run.
Other ways to say “eventually” or in the end.
7. Better late than never
Meaning: It’s better to arrive late than not at all.
Example: Sarah’s apology, though late, was appreciated. Better late than never!
Other ways to say “Late is better than never” and It’s better to be late than miss out.
8. Time after time
Meaning: Repeatedly or consistently.
Example: Tom tried to fix the computer time time after time, but it still wouldn’t work.
Other ways to say “again and again” or repeatedly.
9. In the meantime
Meaning: During the time before something happens.
Example: We’re waiting for the pizza to arrive. In the meantime, let’s play a game.
Other ways to say “meanwhile” or for now.
10. Time will tell
Meaning: The truth or outcome will be revealed eventually.
Example: We’re not sure if the new restaurant will succeed, but time will tell.
Other ways to say: We’ll see. Only time will show.
11. Behind the times
Meaning: Outdated or old-fashioned.
Example: Grandpa still uses a flip phone; he’s behind the times.
Other ways to say “not up-to-date” or old-fashioned.
12. In the blink of an eye
Meaning: Happening very quickly.
Example: The magician made the rabbit disappear in the blink of an eye.
Other ways to say “in an instant” or very quickly.
13. In due time
Meaning: At the appropriate or expected time.
Example: Your package will arrive in due time; just be patient.
Other ways to say “when the time is right” or at the proper time.
14. Time off
Meaning: A period of rest or vacation from work or school.
Example: After working hard all week, I’m looking forward to some time off this weekend.
Other ways to say “break” or vacation time.
15. High time
Meaning: It’s past time for something to happen; it’s long overdue.
Example: It’s high time we started cleaning up; the guests will be here soon.
Other ways to say “long overdue” and it’s about time.
16. Crunch time
Meaning: The time just before a deadline or when a situation becomes critical.
Example: It’s crunch time; we need to finish the project before the end of the day.
Other ways to say “time of urgency, critical moment.
17. Just a matter of time
Meaning: Something is certain to happen eventually.
Example: It’s just a matter of time before he realizes his mistake.
Other ways to say “It’s inevitable, bound to happen.
18. Time on your hands
Meaning: Having free time with nothing specific to do.
Example: Since school was canceled, Sally had a lot of time on her hands.
Other ways to say “free time” or idle time.
19. On borrowed time
Meaning: Living on borrowed time means living longer than expected or surviving beyond the time someone thought you would.
Example: After the accident, the doctor said Grandpa was on borrowed time.
Other ways to say “living on borrowed time” and defying the odds.
20. In the eleventh hour
Meaning: At the last possible moment, just before the deadline.
Example: They finished their project in the eleventh hour, just before the deadline.
Other ways to say “at the last minute” or at the final hour.
21. Make up for lost time
Meaning: To do something quickly to compensate for time lost or missed.
Example: After being sick, Emily had to make up for lost time in school.
Other ways to say “catch up on time” and compensate for lost time.
22. On schedule
Meaning: Happening at the planned or expected time.
Example: The train arrived on schedule, just like it was supposed to.
Other ways to say “punctual” and according to plan.
23. Time well spent
Meaning: Time that has been used in a valuable or enjoyable way.
Example: Spending the day at the park with friends was time well spent.
Other ways to say “time enjoyed” and worthwhile time.
24. Time heals all wounds
Meaning: The passage of time can help heal emotional pain or grief.
Example: Losing his pet was hard, but time heals all wounds.
Other ways to say: With time, all things get better, and time cures pain.
25. In the twinkling of an eye
Meaning: Happening very quickly or suddenly.
Example: The car disappeared in the twinkling of an eye; it was so fast!
Other ways to say “in an instant” or suddenly.
26. Take your time
Meaning: Do something slowly or without rushing.
Example: When solving math problems, it’s important to take your time and double-check your work.
Other ways to say: Don’t hurry; go at your own pace.
27. Time and time again
Meaning: Repeatedly, many times.
Example: Jack was warned about the consequences time and time again, but he never listened.
Other ways to say “repeatedly” and over and over.
28. A race against time
Meaning: Doing something quickly before it’s too late; trying to meet a deadline.
Example: It was a race against time to finish the project before the deadline.
Other ways to say “against the clock” or under pressure.
How to Use Idioms for Time in Conversation
Using idioms for time in conversation can greatly enhance your ability to express yourself and convey emotions effectively. Here are some tips on how to incorporate these idioms into your speech:
Be aware of context: Choose idioms that match the situation. For example, use “In the nick of time” when referring to something happening just before it’s too late or “Time is money” in a situation where time management is crucial.
Mix formal and informal idioms: Some idioms, like “Time is money,” can be used in both professional and casual conversations, while others, like “In the blink of an eye,” may be more fitting for informal contexts.
Practice using idioms naturally: Incorporate idioms into your daily conversations to make them feel more natural and less forced. The more you use them, the more comfortable they’ll become.
Avoid overusing idioms: While idioms can make your language more colorful, using too many can make your speech sound over-complicated. Aim for a balanced approach where idioms are used to enhance, not overwhelm, your message.
Conclusion On idioms for time
Idioms for time are a fantastic way to add color, depth, and expressiveness to your English conversations. Whether you’re racing against the clock, reflecting on how time flies, or realizing that time heals all wounds, these expressions help you communicate more naturally and fluently.
By incorporating these idioms for time into your speech and writing, you’ll not only sound more like a native speaker but also make your conversations more engaging and relatable. Just remember to use them in the right context—whether in casual chats or professional discussions—so they enhance rather than overwhelm your message.
So, the next time you find yourself in a race against time, don’t stress! Take your time, practice, and soon enough, using these idioms will feel second nature. After all, time well spent learning new expressions will always pay off in the long run!