Idioms and Expressions for the Word "Time"

The following idioms and expressions use 'time'. Each idiom or expression has a definition and two example sentences to help to understand these common idiomatic expressions with 'time'. Once you have studied these expressions, test your knowledge with quiz testing idioms and expressions with time.

Ahead of One's Time

Definition: To be more talented than others recognize.
He's ahead of his time. No one knows how important his discoveries are.
She's always felt that she was ahead of her time, so she isn't disappointed.

Ahead of Time

Definition: Before the agreed-upon time.
I think we'll get there ahead of time.
Wow, we're ahead of time today. Let's keep it up!

All in Good Time

Definition: Within a reasonable amount of time.
I'll get to you all in good time. Please be patient.
Her professor kept on saying that she'd be successful, but that it would be all in good time.

At a Set Time

Definition: At an agreed-upon time.
We'll meet at the set time.
Let's make sure that we meet at a set time.

At All Times

Definition: Always
Make sure to keep your seat belts on at all times.
Students need to pay attention at all times.

At the Appointed Time

Definition: At an agreed-upon time.
We'll meet at the appointed time and place.
Did you get into the doctor's office at the appointed time?

Behind the Times

Definition: Not fashionable, not up on current fashions.
My Dad is so behind the times!
She dresses like it was the 70s she's behind the times!

To Bide One's Time

Definition: To wait.
I'm biding my time until he arrives.
She decided to bide her time in a shop.

From Time to Time

Definition: Occasionally
I like playing golf from time to time.
Petra speaks with Tom from time to time.

Have the Time of One's Life

Definition: Have a fantastic experience.
My daughter had the time of her life in Disneyland.
Believe me. You're going to have the time of your life.

Keep Time

Definition: Keep the beat in music.
Can you keep time while we practice this piece?
He kept time with his foot.

Live on Borrowed Time

Definition: To live dangerously.
He's living on borrowed time if he keeps that up!
She felt she was living on borrowed time because she smoked.

Make Time for Something or Someone

Definition: Create a period of time especially for a thing or person.
I need to make some extra time for reading.
I'll make time for you on Saturday.

Out of Time

Definition: Not having any more time available.
I'm afraid we're out of time for today.
You're out of time for that competition.

Pressed for Time

Definition: To not have a lot of time to do something.
I'm pressed for time today. Hurry up!
She couldn't see me because she was pressed for time.

Time Is Money

Definition: An expression meaning that someone's time is important.
Remember that time is money, let's hurry up.
Time is money, Tim. If you want to talk, it's going to cost you.

When the Time Is Ripe

Definition: When it is the proper time.
We'll get there when the time is ripe!
Don't worry you'll be successful when the time is ripe.

Once you have studied these expressions, test your knowledge with quiz testing idioms and expressions with time.