Time is one of the most valuable resources we have, and it plays a central role in our daily lives. In the English language, time is often described through idioms—expressions that convey meanings beyond their literal words. These idioms not only add creativity and color to communication but also reflect how deeply time influences human experiences. From phrases like “time flies” to “in the nick of time,” these expressions help us articulate thoughts about urgency, patience, and the fleeting nature of life. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular English idioms about time, their meanings, and how they can be used in everyday conversations.
1. Time flies
- Meaning: Time seems to pass very quickly.
- Example: Time flies when you’re having fun.
2. Beat the clock
- Meaning: To finish something before the deadline or time runs out.
- Example: We managed to beat the clock and complete the project early.
3. Around the clock
- Meaning: Non-stop or continuously, day and night.
- Example: The hospital is open around the clock.
4. Kill time
- Meaning: To do something to pass the time while waiting for something else.
- Example: I watched a movie to kill time before my appointment.
5. Time is money
- Meaning: Time is valuable, so don’t waste it.
- Example: I can’t sit around doing nothing—time is money.
6. In the nick of time
- Meaning: Just in time; at the last possible moment.
- Example: The firefighters arrived in the nick of time to save the house.
7. Time will tell
- Meaning: The truth or results will become clear in the future.
- Example: Only time will tell if the new policy works.
8. A race against time
- Meaning: A situation where you must work very quickly to achieve something before the deadline.
- Example: It was a race against time to finish the report before the meeting.
9. Third time’s a charm
- Meaning: The third attempt at something is likely to succeed.
- Example: I’ve failed twice, but third time’s a charm!
10. Against the clock
- Meaning: Working quickly because there is a deadline.
- Example: We’re working against the clock to finish the presentation.
11. Once in a blue moon
- Meaning: Something that happens very rarely.
- Example: I only see my cousin once in a blue moon.
12. Out of time
- Meaning: To have no time left to finish something.
- Example: I couldn’t finish the test; I ran out of time.
13. Take your time
- Meaning: Do something without rushing.
- Example: There’s no hurry—take your time.
14. Better late than never
- Meaning: It’s better to do something late than not do it at all.
- Example: He finally apologized—better late than never.
15. Make up for lost time
- Meaning: To do something faster or more often to compensate for not doing it earlier.
- Example: After missing so many classes, she worked hard to make up for lost time.
16. At the eleventh hour
- Meaning: At the very last moment.
- Example: They reached an agreement at the eleventh hour.
17. Have the time of your life
- Meaning: To enjoy something immensely.
- Example: We had the time of our lives at the concert.
18. For the time being
- Meaning: For now; temporarily.
- Example: Let’s stay here for the time being until the rain stops.
19. A matter of time
- Meaning: Something is certain to happen, sooner or later.
- Example: It’s only a matter of time before they find out the truth.
20. Living on borrowed time
- Meaning: Existing in a situation that is not likely to last long.
- Example: After his accident, he felt like he was living on borrowed time.
10 English idioms about time