20 Useful Idioms About Time in English

Time is a ubiquitous force that governs our lives, influencing our every action and dictating the rhythm of our existence. It is a concept that transcends borders and cultures, universally recognized and deeply embedded in our language. Idioms, in particular, paint vivid pictures and capture the essence of various aspects of life, including the passage of time. In this article, we delve into the realm of time-related idioms, unearthing 20 gems that encapsulate the multifaceted nature of time in the English language. From the fleeting nature of time to the importance of seizing the moment, these idioms offer insights into our relationship with time and the lessons it imparts. So, let’s embark on this linguistic journey and explore the rich tapestry of idioms about time, unraveling their meanings and unraveling the threads that bind us to the inexorable march of time.

20 Useful Idioms About Time in English

• “A devil of a time“: This idiom means to have a difficult or challenging experience. It suggests struggling or facing obstacles while trying to accomplish something. For example, “I had a devil of a time figuring out the math problem.”
• “For the time being“: This idiom refers to a temporary or current situation. It implies that something is true or applicable only for a limited period and may change in the future. For instance, “You can use my laptop for the time being until you get a new one.”
• “Bad time“: This idiom indicates a period of difficulty, misfortune, or trouble. It suggests experiencing unfavorable circumstances or facing challenges. For example, “She’s going through a bad time after losing her job.”
• “Time to hit the road“: This idiom means it is time to leave or start a journey. It implies that it is the appropriate moment to depart or begin traveling. For instance, “It’s getting late; time to hit the road and head back home.”
• “Around the clock“: This idiom means continuously or without stopping, 24 hours a day. It suggests that something is happening or being done all day and all night. For example, “The hospital operates around the clock to provide medical care.”
• “Kill time“: This idiom means to pass time or occupy oneself with activities that are not particularly productive or meaningful. It implies engaging in activities to prevent boredom while waiting for something else. For instance, “I played video games to kill time while waiting for my flight.”
• “As time goes by“: This idiom implies that something changes or develops gradually over time. It suggests the passage of time and the resulting transformations or shifts. For example, “Their relationship grew stronger as time went by.”
• “Lose track of time“: This idiom means to become unaware of the passing time or to be unable to estimate how much time has elapsed. It suggests being engrossed or absorbed in something to the point of disregarding time. For instance, “I was so immersed in the book that I lost track of time.”
• “Caught in a time warp“: This idiom describes a situation where time seems to be standing still or where one feels stuck in the past. It implies a lack of progress or an inability to move forward with the times. For example, “The small town felt like it was caught in a time warp with its vintage architecture and outdated technology.”
• “Have a time of it“: This idiom means to have a difficult or challenging experience. It suggests encountering obstacles or facing hardships while trying to accomplish something. For instance, “She had a time of it while organizing the event with all the last-minute changes.”
• “In the fullness of time“: This idiom means that something will happen or be understood at the appropriate or destined time. It implies that patience is required for a situation to unfold or for knowledge to be gained. For example, “You’ll understand why it happened in the fullness of time.”
• “Time is money”: This idiom emphasizes the value of time and the importance of using it efficiently. It suggests that wasting time is equivalent to wasting potential earnings or opportunities. For instance, “We need to work quickly and efficiently because time is money.”
• “Behind time“: This idiom refers to being late or behind schedule. It implies not meeting a designated time or deadline. For example, “The train arrived behind time due to unexpected delays.”
• “Stand the test of time“: This idiom means that something has proven to be durable, successful, or relevant over a long period. It suggests that the quality or value of something remains strong despite the passing of time. For instance, “Classic literature stands the test of time and continues to be appreciated by readers.”
• “Killing time”: This idiom is similar to “kill time” and means to spend time idly or in a way that is not productive or purposeful. It implies engaging in activities to pass the time without any specific goal. For example, “I watched TV to kill time while waiting for the repair person.”
• “Time heals all wounds“: This idiom suggests that the passage of time can help ease emotional pain or heal emotional wounds. It implies that with time, difficult experiences become less painful or overwhelming. For instance, “Although it hurts now, remember that time heals all wounds.”
• “Time is on your side“: This idiom means that there is no need to rush or worry because there is ample time available. It suggests that time can be advantageous or supportive in achieving a desired outcome. For example, “Don’t stress; time is on your side, and you can take your time to make the right decision.”
• “In the nick of time“: This idiom has been previously mentioned, but it’s worth repeating. It refers to doing something or arriving at a place just before it’s too late. It suggests that something was accomplished or avoided at the last possible moment. For instance, “I finished my report in the nick of time before the deadline.”
• “Time and tide wait for no one“: This idiom conveys that time and opportunities do not wait for anyone. It implies that it is important to act promptly and seize opportunities when they arise. For example, “You need to make a decision quickly; time and tide wait for no one.”
• “Wasting time“: This idiom means to spend time in an unproductive or inefficient manner. It implies using time without achieving anything valuable or significant. For instance, “Stop wasting time on social media and start working on your assignments.”

These idioms provide a variety of expressions related to time and can be used to convey different meanings and situations.

Idioms About Time in English + Examples