Time rules everything: our schedules, our memories, and even our dreams. That’s why “idioms for time” are so common in everyday language. These expressions help us talk about the past, present, and future in vivid, relatable ways.
From phrases like “beat the clock” to “time flies,” these idioms add color and meaning to how we experience the ticking moments of life. Whether you’re rushing through a deadline or reminiscing about the good old days, there’s a time-related idiom that fits the mood.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular and creative idioms for time, along with meanings and examples to help you use them like a pro.
Idioms for Time
Time is a concept that governs our lives, and the English language is rich with expressions that capture its essence. These idioms not only add color to our conversations but also convey complex ideas succinctly.
1. Time flies
This idiom suggests that time passes quickly, especially when one is engaged in enjoyable activities. For instance, “I can’t believe it’s already December; time flies when you’re having fun.”
2. Time is money
Emphasizing the value of time, this phrase equates time with financial worth. For example, “We shouldn’t waste time in meetings; time is money, and every minute counts.”
3. Kill time
This expression refers to engaging in activities to make time pass more quickly. For instance, “I read a magazine to kill time while waiting for my appointment.”
4. Time will tell
Used to indicate that the truth or outcome of a situation will become clear over time. For example, “Only time will tell if the new policy is effective.”
5. A stitch in time saves nine
This proverb advises that addressing a problem promptly can prevent it from worsening. For instance, “Fixing the leak now is smart, a stitch in time saves nine.”
6. Time is of the essence
Highlighting the urgency of a situation, this idiom stresses that timely action is crucial. For example, “Delivering the package today is vital; time is of the essence.”
7. Against the clock
Describes working under time pressure to meet a deadline. For instance, “We’re working against the clock to finish the project before the end of the quarter.”
8. Better late than never
This phrase implies that completing a task late is preferable to not doing it at all. For example, “He finally apologized better late than never.”
9. Time heals all wounds
Suggests that emotional pain lessens over time. For instance, “She was heartbroken after the breakup, but time heals all wounds.”
10. Like clockwork
Indicates that something happens with regularity and precision. For example, “The train arrives at 8 AM every day, like clockwork.”
11. The early bird catches the worm
Emphasizes the advantages of starting early. For instance, “She got the best deals at the market when the early bird catches the worm.”
12. In the nick of time
Means just in time, before it’s too late. For example, “We arrived at the station in the nick of time to catch the train.”
13. Time to hit the road
A colloquial way to say it’s time to leave. For instance, “We’ve packed everything; it’s time to hit the road.”
14. Time is a healer
Similar to “time heals all wounds,” this idiom suggests that time can mend emotional pain. For example, “After the loss, he found solace. Time is a healer.”
15. At the eleventh hour
Refers to doing something at the last possible moment. For instance, “He submitted his assignment at the eleventh hour.”
16. Time waits for no man
Highlights that time moves forward, regardless of individual circumstances. For example, “We must act now; time waits for no man.”
17. All in good time
Suggests that things will happen when the time is right. For instance, “Be patient; all in good time.”
18. Time flies when you’re having fun
An extension of “time flies,” emphasizing that enjoyable moments seem to pass quickly. For example, “The vacation ended so soon time flies when you’re having fun.”
19. A matter of time
Indicates that something is inevitable, though the exact timing is uncertain. For instance, “It’s only a matter of time before they discover the truth.”
20. Save time
Refers to actions that make processes more efficient. For example, “Using a dishwasher can save time in the kitchen.”
21. Time out
Can mean a short break or a penalty period in sports. For instance, “Let’s take a time out to rest.”
22. Time and tide wait for no man
Emphasizes that natural processes and time are beyond human control. For example, “We must seize opportunities, time and tide wait for no man.”
23. Time to call it a day
Means it’s time to stop working for the day. For instance, “We’ve done enough; let’s call it a day.”
24. Time is on your side
Suggests that one has sufficient time to accomplish something. For example, “Don’t rush; time is on your side.”
25. Make time for
Refers to allocating time for something important. For instance, “It’s essential to make time for family.”
26. Time to face the music
Means it’s time to accept the consequences of one’s actions. For example, “He knew he had to face the music after the mistake.”
27. Time to turn over a new leaf
Suggests starting anew or making a positive change. For instance, “After the incident, he decided to turn over a new leaf.”
28. Lost track of time
Indicates being unaware of how much time has passed. For example, “I was so engrossed in the book, I lost track of time.”
29. Time to move on
Means it’s time to let go of the past and proceed. For instance, “After years in the same job, she felt it was time to move on.”
30. A race against time
Describes a situation where one must act quickly to meet a deadline. For example, “It was a race against time to finish the project.”
31. Time to put your feet up
Means it’s time to relax. For instance, “After a long day, it’s time to put your feet up.”
32. Time to get your act together
Suggests organizing oneself or improving behavior. For example, “He realized he needed to get his act together to succeed.”
33. Time to cross that bridge when you come to it
Means to address a problem when it arises, not before. For instance, “Don’t worry about the interview; we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”
34. Time to take the plunge
Suggests making a significant or risky decision. For example, “She decided it was time to take the plunge and start her own business.”
35. A question of time
Indicates that something is inevitable, though the timing is uncertain. For instance, “It’s just a question of time before they win.”
36. Time to get back on track
Means to return to the correct path or routine. For example, “After the holidays, it’s time to get back on track with work.”
37. Time to take a step back
Suggests pausing to reassess a situation. For instance, “He needed to take a step back and evaluate his options.”
38. Time to get the ball rolling
Means to start an activity or process. For example, “Let’s get the ball rolling on the new project.”
39. Behind the times
This idiom means someone or something is outdated or not keeping up with current trends or developments. For example, “His fashion sense is totally behind the times he still wears bell-bottoms.” It’s a figurative way of expressing that a person is out of touch with time references or modern ideas.
40. In the long run
This idiom refers to a longer period or the eventual outcome of something over time in language. For instance, “It may seem hard now, but in the long run, eating healthy will benefit your body.” It’s often used to highlight the semantic expression of time related to future consequences or benefits.
Quiz on Idioms for Time
What does the idiom “time waits for no man” mean?
a) Time is patient
b) Time moves for everyone
c) Time keeps moving, no matter what
d) Time can be controlled
Answer: c) Time keeps moving, no matter what
“In the nick of time” suggests what?
a) Just after the right time
b) Exactly on time
c) Too late
d) Time doesn’t matter
Answer: b) Exactly on time
The phrase “lost track of time” refers to:
a) Following time closely
b) Forgetting the time
c) Measuring time accurately
d) Managing time wisely
Answer: b) Forgetting the time
“Time is of the essence” implies:
a) Time is flexible
b) Time has no meaning
c) Time is extremely important
d) Time should be ignored
Answer: c) Time is extremely important
What does “a race against time” mean?
a) Competing in sports
b) Rushing to finish something quickly
c) Watching time go by
d) Taking your time
Answer: b) Rushing to finish something quickly
“Like clockwork” means:
a) Something happens slowly
b) Things happen randomly
c) Something happens perfectly and on time
d) Something breaks often
Answer: c) Something happens perfectly and on time
The idiom “a matter of time” suggests:
a) It will never happen
b) It might happen
c) It will happen eventually
d) It’s not related to time
Answer: c) It will happen eventually
Conclusion
Idioms for time add color and depth to everyday language. They help express moments, delays, deadlines, and the fleeting nature of life with creativity and flair. From “beat the clock” to “time flies,” these phrases capture our relationship with time in vivid, memorable ways. Whether you’re writing, speaking, or just trying to sound more natural, using idioms for time can enhance your communication. Keep exploring and practicing them. You’ll not only enrich your vocabulary but also make your expressions more relatable and impactful. Time, after all, waits for no one!
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