Time shapes our emotions, our decisions, and the way we connect with others. Whether we are reflecting on the past, living in the present, or planning for the future, idioms for time help us express these experiences with warmth, care, and thoughtful phrasing. In everyday conversations, professional writing, and heartfelt moments, these expressions add depth, clarity, and emotional resonance.
In this article, I’m sharing 25 commonly used time idioms, explained in a clear, conversational, and empathetic way. Over the years, as a writer and editor, I’ve noticed how using the right idiom at the right moment can soften communication, build trust, and make language feel more human.
1. In the Nick of Time
Meaning: Just before it’s too late.
Sentence: We arrived in the nick of time to catch the last train.
Best Use: When something happens at the perfect, last possible moment.
Other Ways to Say: Just in time, at the last second.
2. Against the Clock
Meaning: Working under time pressure.
Sentence: She was racing against the clock to meet the deadline.
Best Use: In work, exams, or urgent situations.
Other Ways to Say: Under pressure, short on time.
3. Time Flies
Meaning: Time passes very quickly.
Sentence: Time flies when you’re with people you love.
Best Use: Expressing nostalgia or joy.
Other Ways to Say: Time passes quickly, time slips away.
4. Ahead of Time
Meaning: Earlier than planned.
Sentence: We finished the project ahead of time.
Best Use: Professional or achievement-focused contexts.
Other Ways to Say: Early, in advance.
5. Behind the Times
Meaning: Old-fashioned or outdated.
Sentence: That system feels behind the times now.
Best Use: Discussing trends or progress.
Other Ways to Say: Outdated, old-school.
6. At the Eleventh Hour
Meaning: At the last possible moment.
Sentence: He submitted his application at the eleventh hour.
Best Use: Formal or dramatic situations.
Other Ways to Say: Last minute, just in time.
7. Once in a Blue Moon
Meaning: Very rarely.
Sentence: We only meet once in a blue moon.
Best Use: Casual, friendly conversations.
Other Ways to Say: Hardly ever, rarely.
8. Time Is Money
Meaning: Time is valuable.
Sentence: In business, time is money.
Best Use: Work, productivity, or efficiency discussions.
Other Ways to Say: Time is valuable, every minute counts.
9. A Matter of Time
Meaning: Something will happen eventually.
Sentence: It’s only a matter of time before she succeeds.
Best Use: Hopeful or predictive statements.
Other Ways to Say: Sooner or later.
10. Kill Time
Meaning: Do something to pass time.
Sentence: I read a book to kill time at the airport.
Best Use: Informal settings.
Other Ways to Say: Pass time, fill time.
11. Time and Again
Meaning: Repeatedly.
Sentence: I’ve told you time and again to be careful.
Best Use: Emphasis in communication.
Other Ways to Say: Over and over, repeatedly.
12. Pressed for Time
Meaning: Very busy.
Sentence: I’m pressed for time today.
Best Use: Polite professional excuses.
Other Ways to Say: Short on time, busy.
13. In Due Time
Meaning: At the right moment.
Sentence: Everything will be revealed in due time.
Best Use: Calm, reassuring tones.
Other Ways to Say: Eventually, when ready.
14. For the Time Being
Meaning: Temporarily.
Sentence: We’ll stay here for the time being.
Best Use: Transitional phases.
Other Ways to Say: For now, temporarily.
15. Time After Time
Meaning: Repeatedly over a long period.
Sentence: She proved her dedication time after time.
Best Use: Emotional or reflective writing.
Other Ways to Say: Again and again.
16. Make Time for
Meaning: Arrange time deliberately.
Sentence: Always make time for family.
Best Use: Relationships and self-care discussions.
Other Ways to Say: Prioritize, set aside time.
17. All the Time in the World
Meaning: Plenty of time.
Sentence: Take your time—you have all the time in the world.
Best Use: Comforting conversations.
Other Ways to Say: No rush, plenty of time.
18. Time Will Tell
Meaning: The future will reveal the truth.
Sentence: Time will tell if this decision was right.
Best Use: Uncertain situations.
Other Ways to Say: We’ll see, only time knows.
19. On Borrowed Time
Meaning: Extra time beyond what was expected.
Sentence: He felt he was living on borrowed time.
Best Use: Serious or reflective contexts.
Other Ways to Say: Limited time left.
20. In the Long Run
Meaning: Over a long period.
Sentence: This choice will help you in the long run.
Best Use: Advice or planning.
Other Ways to Say: Eventually, over time.
21. At Any Time
Meaning: Whenever needed.
Sentence: You can call me at any time.
Best Use: Supportive communication.
Other Ways to Say: Whenever, anytime.
22. Time on Your Hands
Meaning: Having nothing to do.
Sentence: With time on my hands, I learned a new skill.
Best Use: Casual storytelling.
Other Ways to Say: Free time, spare time.
23. From Time to Time
Meaning: Occasionally.
Sentence: I travel from time to time.
Best Use: Polite, neutral expressions.
Other Ways to Say: Occasionally, now and then.
24. Beat the Clock
Meaning: Finish before a deadline.
Sentence: We managed to beat the clock.
Best Use: Competitive or goal-driven contexts.
Other Ways to Say: Finish early, meet the deadline.
25. Time Stands Still
Meaning: A moment feels frozen.
Sentence: Time stood still when I heard the news.
Best Use: Emotional storytelling.
Other Ways to Say: Everything froze, the moment paused.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are idioms for time important in communication?
They add emotional depth and natural flow, making language more relatable.
2. Can time idioms be used in professional writing?
Yes, when used carefully, they enhance clarity and tone.
3. Are idioms universal across cultures?
Some are, but many are language- and culture-specific.
4. How can I remember time idioms easily?
Use them in daily conversations and writing.
5. Do idioms help improve English fluency?
Absolutely—they make your speech sound natural and confident.
Conclusion
Time is deeply personal, and the words we choose to describe it matter. These 25 idioms for time offer more than definitions—they provide meaningful ways to connect, reflect, and express care. From my experience as a writer, the most memorable communication happens when language feels human, thoughtful, and sincere. By using these idioms naturally, you can enrich your conversations and writing with warmth and authenticity—one moment at a time.
David Robert is a passionate innovator driven by creativity, vision, and purpose. He turns bold ideas into impactful realities through focus, leadership, and dedication.
