Understanding Time Idioms, Sayings, Phrases, And Expressions

Time idioms have ticked their way into our language, adding a lively and clever twist to the way we chat.

On this page, you’ll discover a treasure chest of time idioms, each with its meanings, origins, synonyms, and fun example sentences.

Whether you’re curious about sayings like “burning the midnight oil” or itching to learn about expressions like “time is of the essence,” this guide will help you sprinkle some timely flair into your vocabulary.

Perfect for writers, language buffs, or anyone looking to make their words count, our collection of time idioms will make your communication style truly tick.

So, don’t waste another second—time travel into the page and explore how time-related expressions keep our conversations moving, and uncover the fascinating tales behind these timeless phrases!

Common Time Idioms & Expressions – Meaning, Origin, And Example Sentence

Against The Clock

Meaning: Rushing to complete something before a deadline
Origin: The idiom comes from sports where participants race against a timer to achieve a task within a specific period.
Example Sentence: We were working against the clock to finish the project before the deadline.

At The Drop Of A Hat

Synonym: Immediately
Meaning: To do something instantly, without hesitation
Origin: The idiom likely originates from the 19th century when dropping a hat was a signal to start a race or contest.
Example Sentence: He’s ready to leave at the drop of a hat whenever you are.

Beat The Clock

Synonym: Finish early
Meaning: To finish something before the time limit
Origin: This idiom is derived from sports and games where players try to complete their tasks before time runs out.
Example Sentence: She managed to beat the clock and submit her assignment just before the deadline.

Better Late Than Never

Synonym: Delayed but acceptable
Meaning: It’s better to do something late than not at all
Origin: This proverb has been used in English since the 14th century, emphasizing the value of completing a task, even if delayed.
Example Sentence: He finally apologized—better late than never.

Call It A Day

Synonym: Stop working
Meaning: To stop working on something, usually because the work is complete or you’re tired
Origin: The idiom comes from the early 1900s when workers would finish their day’s work and say they were “calling it a day.”
Example Sentence: After fixing the leak, we decided to call it a day.

Crack Of dawn

Synonym: Early morning
Meaning: Very early in the morning
Origin: Dates back to the late 19th century, referring to the first light of day breaking through the darkness.
Example Sentence: We set off at the crack of dawn to avoid traffic.

At The Eleventh hour

Synonym: Last minute
Meaning: The last possible moment to do something
Origin: This idiom likely has biblical roots, referring to workers being hired at the eleventh hour of the day, just before it ended.
Example Sentence: He submitted his application at the eleventh hour, just before the deadline.

In The Nick Of Time

Synonym: Just in time
Meaning: To do something at the last possible moment
Origin: The idiom has been used since the 16th century, where “nick” refers to a precise moment in time.
Example Sentence: The firemen arrived in the nick of time to save the building.

Once In A Blue Moon

Synonym: Rarely
Meaning: Something that happens very rarely
Origin: The idiom refers to the rare occurrence of a second full moon in a calendar month, known as a “blue moon.”
Example Sentence: He only comes to visit once in a blue moon.

On Borrowed Time

Synonym: Temporary
Meaning: Living or existing on extra time that is not expected to last
Origin: The idiom likely originated from the idea of time being lent to someone, with the expectation that it will run out.
Example Sentence: After the surgery, he felt like he was living on borrowed time.

Pressed For Time

Synonym: In a hurry
Meaning: Having very little time to complete something
Origin: The idiom reflects the pressure one feels when time is running out to finish a task.
Example Sentence: I’m pressed for time, so I’ll have to be brief.

Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day

Synonym: Patience required
Meaning: Important work takes time and should not be rushed
Origin: The idiom dates back to the medieval French proverb, reminding people that great things take time to develop.
Example Sentence: Don’t rush the process; Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Time Flies

Synonym: Time passes quickly
Meaning: Time seems to pass very quickly
Origin: The idiom comes from the Latin “tempus fugit,” which means “time flees.”
Example Sentence: Time flies when you’re having fun.

Time Is Money

Synonym: Time is valuable
Meaning: Time is a valuable resource, so it’s important to use it wisely
Origin: The phrase is attributed to Benjamin Franklin, who emphasized the importance of time in business and life.
Example Sentence: Let’s not waste any more time—time is money.

Time Will Tell

Synonym: Wait and see
Meaning: The truth or outcome will be revealed with time
Origin: The phrase dates back to the 16th century, reflecting the idea that only time can reveal certain truths.
Example Sentence: Only time will tell if their decision was the right one.

Turn Back The Hands Of Time

Synonym: Reverse time
Meaning: To wish to go back to an earlier time
Origin: The idiom is derived from the image of physically turning back a clock to an earlier time.
Example Sentence: If I could turn back the hands of time, I would do things differently.

A Race Against Time

Synonym: Urgent effort
Meaning: An effort to complete something in a very limited time
Origin: The idiom comes from the idea of racing against a clock to achieve something before time runs out.
Example Sentence: It was a race against time to get the report finished before the meeting.

Around The Clock

Synonym: Nonstop
Meaning: Continuous, 24/7
Origin: Refers to a clock’s hands moving continuously around the face, symbolizing ongoing activity.
Example Sentence: The team worked around the clock to complete the project.

Beat The Clock

Synonym: Finish in time
Meaning: To complete a task or achieve something before a deadline or within a specific time limit.
Origin: The phrase likely originated from sports, particularly from games where players needed to achieve a goal before time ran out, such as in basketball or football. The clock represents the time limit, and “beating the clock” means to finish something before time expires.
Example Sentence: Sarah managed to beat the clock by submitting her assignment just minutes before the deadline.

Having The Time Of Your Life

Synonym: Enjoying immensely
Meaning: To experience an exceptionally enjoyable or memorable moment or period in life.
Origin: This phrase became popular in the 20th century and has been used in various songs, movies, and literature. It emphasizes that a person is enjoying a peak experience that they will remember fondly for a long time.
Example Sentence: During their vacation in the Bahamas, they were having the time of their lives, soaking in the sun and exploring the beautiful beaches.

Get With The Times

Synonym: Modernize
Meaning: To adapt to current trends or developments
Origin: This idiom likely emerged in the 20th century, encouraging people to stay updated with societal changes.
Example Sentence: You need to get with the times and start using social media.

Stands The Test Of Time

Synonym: Endures
Meaning: To prove to be durable, reliable, or of lasting value over a long period.
Origin: The phrase “stands the test of time” likely originates from the concept of something being tested or challenged over a period of time to determine its durability or value. The idea of time as a test has been around for centuries, reflecting the notion that only the most resilient or valuable things can endure through changing conditions and challenges.
Example Sentence: The architecture of the ancient cathedral has stood the test of time, still standing strong after hundreds of years.

Time Is Of The Essence

Synonym: Urgency is required
Meaning: This phrase means that something must be done quickly or within a specific time frame, as delays could lead to negative consequences.
Origin: The phrase originates from legal language, particularly in contract law. It was first used in legal documents to indicate that time is a critical factor in fulfilling contractual obligations. If the agreed-upon task isn’t completed within the specified time, the contract could be considered breached.
Example Sentence: When signing the contract to buy the house, the clause clearly stated that time is of the essence, meaning the closing process had to be completed by the end of the month to secure the deal.

It’s Wine O’clock

Synonym: Time for a drink
Meaning: This phrase humorously suggests that it’s an appropriate time to drink wine, often used to imply that it’s been a long or stressful day, or simply to justify having a glass of wine regardless of the actual time.
Origin: This is a modern, playful expression that likely emerged in the 21st century. It follows the pattern of phrases like “It’s five o’clock somewhere,” which justify early drinking by suggesting that it’s always the appropriate time to enjoy a drink somewhere in the world. The specific focus on wine reflects its popularity as a casual, everyday drink.
Example Sentence: After a long day at work, she looked at the clock and said, “It’s Wine O’clock!” before pouring herself a glass of red wine.

In Due Time

Synonym: Eventually
Meaning: At the appropriate time; eventually
Origin: Comes from the notion that everything will happen when it is supposed to, in its due time.
Example Sentence: You’ll get your promotion in due time.

It’s High Time

Synonym: Past due
Meaning: Something should have happened long ago; it’s overdue
Origin: The phrase has been in use since the 14th century, meaning the latest time at which something should happen.
Example Sentence: It’s high time we addressed this issue.

Ahead of Time

Synonym: Early
Meaning: Before the expected or required time.
Origin: The phrase comes from the concept of a timeline, where events are expected to occur at specific times. Being ahead of time means something happens before its scheduled moment.
Example Sentence: She submitted her report ahead of time, impressing her boss with her efficiency.

All in Good Time

Synonym: Eventually
Meaning: At the appropriate or proper time.
Origin: This phrase is believed to have originated in the 16th century, conveying the idea that things will happen when they are supposed to.
Example Sentence: You’ll get your promotion, all in good time.

Around the Clock

Synonym: Continuously
Meaning: All day and night without stopping.
Origin: This phrase is from the 20th century, inspired by the 12-hour clock and the notion of time being circular, with the hands of a clock moving around continuously.
Example Sentence: The hospital staff worked around the clock to care for the patients.

Better Late Than Never

Synonym: Eventually
Meaning: It’s better to do something late than not do it at all.
Origin: This phrase dates back to the 14th century, with Chaucer being one of the earliest to use a version of it in English literature.
Example Sentence: He finally finished his degree at 40, but better late than never.

Big Time

Synonym: Significantly
Meaning: To a large extent or degree.
Origin: Originating from the world of entertainment in the 1920s, where performers aimed to make it to the “big time” (major venues).
Example Sentence: She messed up big time by forgetting the meeting.

Bide Your Time

Synonym: Wait patiently
Meaning: To wait for the right moment to act.
Origin: This phrase is from the 1500s, with “bide” meaning to endure or wait.
Example Sentence: He’s just biding his time until the right opportunity comes along.

Call It a Day

Synonym: Stop working
Meaning: To stop working or end a task for the day.
Origin: This phrase dates back to the early 1900s when workers would “call it a day” when they finished their work.
Example Sentence: We’ve done enough for today; let’s call it a day.

Face Time

Synonym: In-person interaction
Meaning: Time spent in direct, personal contact with someone.
Origin: The term “face time” became popular in the late 20th century, referring to time spent face-to-face with someone, particularly in a business setting.
Example Sentence: I need some face time with my manager to discuss the project.

For the Time Being

Synonym: Temporarily
Meaning: For now; for the present moment.
Origin: The phrase dates back to the 18th century and implies that something is temporary, with the expectation of change in the future.
Example Sentence: For the time being, we’ll use the old system until the new one is ready.

In a Jiffy

Synonym: Quickly
Meaning: Very quickly; in a short time.
Origin: The word “jiffy” has been used to describe a short amount of time since the late 18th century, though its exact origin is unclear.
Example Sentence: I’ll be back in a jiffy.

Make Time

Synonym: Schedule time
Meaning: To find the time to do something, despite a busy schedule.
Origin: The phrase “make time” has been in use since the 19th century, implying that one must create or prioritize time for something.
Example Sentence: You need to make time for exercise, even if you’re busy.

Out of Time

Synonym: Time’s up
Meaning: Having no more time left to do something.
Origin: The concept comes from the literal running out of time on a clock or timer, which has been in use since the invention of timekeeping devices.
Example Sentence: We ran out of time before we could finish the exam.

Right on Time

Synonym: Punctual
Meaning: Exactly at the planned or scheduled time.
Origin: The phrase “right on time” is straightforward, originating from the emphasis on punctuality in both social and professional contexts.
Example Sentence: The train arrived right on time.

Save Time

Synonym: Be efficient
Meaning: To do something more quickly or efficiently, thus needing less time.
Origin: The concept comes from the idea of “saving” something valuable (in this case, time), a notion that has been around since the early 19th century.
Example Sentence: Using shortcuts will save time on this project.

Time After Time

Synonym: Repeatedly
Meaning: Again and again; repeatedly.
Origin: This phrase became popular in the 20th century and reflects the idea of something happening continuously over time.
Example Sentence: Time after time, she’s proven her dedication to the company.