Phrases with Time (Types and Examples)
What Are Phrases With Time?
Some phrases are straightforward:
- on time — at the expected or agreed time
- in time — before it is too late
- for the time being — temporarily
- from time to time — occasionally
Others are idiomatic, meaning that their overall meaning cannot always be understood simply by looking at the individual words:
- time flies — time passes quickly
- buy time — create extra time to deal with something
- in the nick of time — just before it is too late
- stand the test of time — remain successful or useful for a long period
Why Are Phrases With Time Important?
The word time is extremely common in English, but its meaning changes considerably when it appears in different expressions.
Compare:
I don’t have time.
with:
I don’t have time to spare.
and:
We arrived in the nick of time.
All three sentences involve time, but they communicate different ideas.
Phrases with time can help you:
- speak more naturally;
- describe schedules and deadlines;
- talk about past and future events;
- explain how often something happens;
- express urgency;
- describe delays;
- talk about opportunities;
- discuss experiences;
- understand English conversations and books;
- improve your vocabulary.
Time Phrases for Talking About When Something Happens
Some expressions containing time simply tell us when an event happens.
At the Time
Meaning: at the particular moment when something happened.
I was living in Lahore at the time.
She was not available at the time of the meeting.
At One Time
Meaning: previously or during a particular period in the past.
At one time, this was the busiest shop in the town.
It can also mean during one particular occasion:
Hundreds of people entered the building at one time.
At Any Time
Meaning: whenever necessary or at any moment.
You can contact me at any time.
At All Times
Meaning: always or under every circumstance.
Visitors must follow the safety instructions at all times.
At Times
Meaning: occasionally; sometimes.
The work can be difficult at times.
From Time to Time
Meaning: occasionally; not regularly.
We still meet from time to time.
From Time to Time Again
This is less common as a fixed expression, but similar repetition can be expressed naturally with phrases such as time and again.
She has proved her ability time and again.
Time and again means repeatedly or on many occasions.
On Time vs. In Time
These two expressions are frequently confused.
On Time
On time means at the scheduled, expected, or agreed time.
The train arrived on time.
Please submit your application on time.
If a meeting starts at 10:00 and you arrive at 10:00, you are on time.
In Time
In time means before it is too late or before a particular event happens.
We arrived in time to catch the train.
She reached the hospital in time for the operation.
There is an important difference:
I arrived on time for the meeting.
This means I arrived at the scheduled time.
I arrived in time for the meeting.
This means I arrived early enough not to miss it.
The distinction between in time and on time, as well as expressions such as in no time, is also highlighted in English-learning resources dealing with time expressions. (Learn English Today)
In the Nick of Time
In the nick of time means just before the last possible moment.
We reached the station in the nick of time.
The firefighters arrived in the nick of time.
It suggests that something almost happened too late.
In No Time
In no time means very quickly or very soon.
Don’t worry. I’ll finish it in no time.
The children were asleep in no time.
It does not mean that something will literally take zero time.
Phrases With Time for Talking About Duration
English uses several expressions with time to describe how long something lasts.
For a Time
Meaning: for a period, usually a limited or temporary one.
We lived there for a time before moving to another city.
For the Time Being
Meaning: temporarily; for now.
You can use my laptop for the time being.
For the time being, we have decided not to make any changes.
This expression suggests that the current situation is temporary. (Learn English Today)
All the Time
Meaning: continuously or very frequently, depending on context.
He talks about football all the time.
The machine was running all the time.
All in Good Time
Meaning: something will happen when the appropriate time comes; there is no need to hurry.
You’ll get your promotion all in good time.
The expression is often used to encourage patience.
Take Your Time
Meaning: do something without rushing.
Take your time; there is no need to hurry.
It can also suggest that someone should work carefully rather than quickly.
Have Time to Spare
Meaning: have more time available than is necessary.
We arrived early, so we had time to spare.
Have a Lot of Time on Your Hands
Meaning: have a large amount of free time.
He must have a lot of time on his hands to complete all those projects.
Phrases With Time for Frequency
Some expressions tell us how often something happens.
Time After Time
Meaning: repeatedly; again and again.
She has won the competition time after time.
Time and Again
Meaning: repeatedly.
He has warned us time and again about the risks.
From Time to Time
Meaning: occasionally.
I still visit my old school from time to time.
Once in a While
Although this expression does not contain the word time, it has a similar function and is often used alongside time-related expressions.
We go out for dinner once in a while.
Phrases With Time for Speed and Urgency
Some time expressions tell us that something must happen quickly.
A Race Against Time
Meaning: a situation in which something must be completed before a deadline.
The rescue team was involved in a race against time.
Completing the project before Friday became a race against time.
Time Is of the Essence
Meaning: time is extremely important, especially because delay could cause a problem.
Time is of the essence, so please send the documents immediately.
This expression is common in formal, business, legal, and professional contexts.
Crunch Time
Meaning: the period when a deadline or important decision is approaching and serious action is required.
It’s crunch time. We have only two days left to finish the project.
At the Eleventh Hour
Meaning: at the last possible moment.
They reached an agreement at the eleventh hour.
In the Nick of Time
As discussed above, this also refers to doing something just before it becomes too late.
We arrived in the nick of time.
Phrases About Waiting and Delay
Buy Time
Meaning: deliberately create more time before something must be dealt with.
The manager asked for another meeting to buy time.
Bide Your Time
Meaning: wait patiently for the right opportunity.
He decided to bide his time until a better opportunity appeared.
This expression often suggests patience combined with preparation or careful observation.
Take Your Time
As noted earlier, this means not rushing.
Take your time and check your answers carefully.
Waste Time
Meaning: use time without achieving anything useful.
Don’t waste time arguing about something that cannot be changed.
Spend Time
Meaning: use a period of time doing something or being with someone.
I enjoy spending time with my family.
Phrases About the Passing of Time
Time Flies
Meaning: time seems to pass very quickly.
Time flies when you’re having fun.
I can’t believe your son is already ten. Time flies!
The related expression time flies when you’re having fun emphasizes how quickly enjoyable periods seem to pass.
Time Will Tell
Meaning: only the future will reveal the result or truth.
We don’t know whether the plan will succeed. Time will tell.
In the Course of Time
Meaning: as time passes.
In the course of time, the situation gradually improved.
Over Time
Meaning: gradually as time passes.
His English improved over time.
With Time
Meaning: as time passes, often suggesting gradual change.
With time, she became more confident.
Phrases About the Right or Wrong Time
The Right Time
Meaning: the appropriate moment to do something.
I think now is the right time to discuss the problem.
The Wrong Time
Meaning: an inappropriate or inconvenient moment.
This is probably the wrong time to discuss money.
The Time Is Ripe
Meaning: circumstances are now favorable for doing something.
The market is growing rapidly, so the time is ripe for expansion.
The expression uses the idea of ripe fruit to suggest that circumstances have reached a suitable stage.
It’s About Time
Meaning: something has happened later than expected or should have happened earlier.
They finally repaired the road. It’s about time!
Depending on tone, it can sound humorous, impatient, or critical.
Ahead of One’s Time
Meaning: having ideas or methods that are more advanced than those generally accepted during that period.
The scientist was ahead of his time.
Behind the Times
Meaning: old-fashioned or slow to adopt new ideas, technology, or practices.
The company’s computer system is behind the times.
These expressions are commonly used to describe how people or ideas relate to the developments of their period.
Phrases About Success and Experience
Have a Good Time
Meaning: enjoy yourself.
We had a good time at the wedding.
Have the Time of Your Life
Meaning: have an extremely enjoyable or memorable experience.
They had the time of their lives on their vacation.
Have a Hard Time
Meaning: experience difficulty doing something.
I’m having a hard time understanding this question.
Have a Difficult Time
This has a similar meaning to have a hard time.
She had a difficult time adjusting to her new job.
Make Good Time
Meaning: travel or progress at a satisfactory speed.
We made good time and reached the city before sunset.
Do Time
This informal expression usually means serve a period of imprisonment.
He was sentenced to five years and will do time in prison.
Because of its association with imprisonment, it is generally used in informal contexts.
Phrases About Long-Lasting Success
Stand the Test of Time
Meaning: remain successful, useful, respected, or effective for a long period.
This novel has stood the test of time.
Their friendship has stood the test of time.
The expression is frequently used for books, ideas, traditions, products, relationships, and works of art.
In the Long Run
Meaning: when the longer-term results are considered.
This investment may be expensive now, but it will save money in the long run.
In the Short Run
Meaning: during the immediate or near future.
The decision may cause problems in the short run.
Phrases About Opportunities
Only a Matter of Time
Meaning: something is expected to happen sooner or later.
It’s only a matter of time before the truth becomes known.
The phrase suggests that the outcome is considered inevitable or highly likely.
Third Time’s the Charm
Meaning: the third attempt is expected to succeed after two failures.
I’ve tried twice already. Third time’s the charm!
It is generally used humorously or hopefully rather than as a serious prediction.
At the Right Place at the Right Time
Meaning: being in a suitable situation at exactly the right moment, often resulting in an opportunity.
She was at the right place at the right time and met the person who offered her the job.
Phrases About Time and Opportunity
Time on Your Hands
Meaning: free time, sometimes more than you need.
If you have time on your hands, why not learn a new skill?
A Matter of Time
Meaning: something will happen eventually.
It is only a matter of time before they find the solution.
Time Is Money
Meaning: time has value, particularly in business, so it should not be wasted.
Let’s get started. Time is money.
Save Time
Meaning: complete something using less time.
Using this software will save time.
Kill Time
Meaning: spend time doing something while waiting for something else.
I played a game on my phone to kill time while waiting for the bus.
This is informal and extremely common in everyday English.
Pass the Time
Meaning: do something to make a period of waiting or inactivity seem shorter.
I read a magazine to pass the time.
Phrases With Time for Temporary Situations
For the Time Being
For the time being, we will continue using the old system.
For a Time
He worked abroad for a time before returning home.
In the Meantime
Meaning: during the period before something else happens.
The doctor will see you shortly. In the meantime, please take a seat.
In the Interim
Meaning: during the period between two events.
The director has resigned. In the interim, the deputy will manage the department.
In the interim is more formal than in the meantime.
Phrases About the Past
Long Ago
Meaning: a long time in the past.
People used this road long ago.
A Long Time Ago
I met him a long time ago.
In Times Past
Meaning: in earlier periods.
In times past, people traveled very differently.
In Former Times
This is a more formal way of referring to an earlier period.
In former times, the building served as a courthouse.
Once Upon a Time
Meaning: at some point in the distant past; traditionally used to begin fairy tales.
Once upon a time, there was a young prince who lived in a small kingdom.
It can also be used humorously when talking about something that happened long ago.
Phrases About the Future
In Time to Come
Meaning: in the future.
In time to come, technology may transform the way we work.
In Due Time
Meaning: eventually, at the appropriate time.
You will receive the results in due time.
In the Near Future
Meaning: relatively soon.
We expect to announce the decision in the near future.
Any Time Soon
Meaning: in the near future, often used in questions or negative statements.
Do you think the repairs will be finished any time soon?
I don’t expect him to return any time soon.
Phrases About Repeated Action
Every Time
Meaning: whenever something happens.
Every time I call, the line is busy.
Each Time
This has essentially the same meaning as every time.
Each time she visits, she brings a gift.
Time and Time Again
Meaning: repeatedly.
We have explained the rules time and time again.
Time After Time
Meaning: repeatedly, often suggesting a repeated pattern.
He made the same mistake time after time.
Phrases About Difficulty
Have a Hell of a Time
Meaning: have an extremely difficult or unpleasant experience.
We had a hell of a time getting the old computer to work.
This expression is informal and contains mild profanity, so it may not be suitable for formal or professional settings.
Have a Devil of a Time
A less direct alternative is:
We had a devil of a time finding the address.
It also means that something was very difficult.
Phrases About Limited Time
Short on Time
Meaning: not having enough available time.
I’m short on time, so let’s discuss the main issue.
Pressed for Time
Meaning: having very little time available.
We’re pressed for time, so please keep the presentation brief.
Time Is Running Out
Meaning: there is very little time remaining.
Hurry up. Time is running out.
Against the Clock
Meaning: working quickly because there is a deadline.
We are working against the clock to finish the project.
Beat the Clock
Meaning: finish something before a deadline.
We managed to beat the clock and submit the application before midnight.
Phrases About Extra Time
Time to Spare
We reached the airport early and had time to spare.
Extra Time
Meaning: additional time beyond the original period.
The students were given extra time to complete the examination.
Overtime
Meaning: time worked beyond normal working hours.
The employees worked overtime to finish the project.
Complete List of Useful Phrases With “Time”
Here is a consolidated list of common and useful expressions containing time.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| on time | at the scheduled time |
| in time | before it is too late |
| in no time | very quickly |
| in the nick of time | just before it is too late |
| at the time | at that particular moment |
| at one time | previously / on one occasion |
| at any time | whenever / at any moment |
| at all times | always |
| at times | occasionally |
| from time to time | occasionally |
| time after time | repeatedly |
| time and again | repeatedly |
| time and time again | repeatedly |
| all the time | continuously / very frequently |
| for a time | for a period |
| for the time being | temporarily |
| all in good time | at the appropriate time |
| take your time | do not hurry |
| time to spare | extra available time |
| time on your hands | free time |
| a race against time | a situation involving urgent action |
| time is of the essence | time is extremely important |
| crunch time | a critical period before a deadline |
| at the eleventh hour | at the last moment |
| buy time | create additional time |
| bide your time | wait patiently for an opportunity |
| waste time | use time unproductively |
| spend time | use time doing something |
| kill time | occupy yourself while waiting |
| pass the time | occupy time |
| time flies | time passes quickly |
| time will tell | the future will reveal the result |
| over time | gradually as time passes |
| with time | as time passes |
| the right time | the appropriate moment |
| the wrong time | an inappropriate moment |
| the time is ripe | circumstances are favorable |
| it’s about time | something is overdue |
| ahead of one’s time | unusually advanced |
| behind the times | old-fashioned |
| have a good time | enjoy yourself |
| have the time of your life | enjoy yourself greatly |
| have a hard time | experience difficulty |
| make good time | travel or progress efficiently |
| do time | serve a prison sentence |
| stand the test of time | remain successful or useful |
| in the long run | considering long-term results |
| in the short run | considering immediate results |
| only a matter of time | something will eventually happen |
| third time’s the charm | the third attempt may succeed |
| in the meantime | during the intervening period |
| in the interim | during the period between events |
| long ago | far in the past |
| once upon a time | traditionally, at the beginning of a story |
| in due time | eventually / at the appropriate time |
| in the near future | relatively soon |
| any time soon | in the near future |
| every time | whenever |
| short on time | lacking enough time |
| pressed for time | having very little time |
| time is running out | little time remains |
| against the clock | working under a deadline |
| beat the clock | finish before a deadline |
| time is money | time has value |
| real time | immediately as something occurs |
| living on borrowed time | continuing beyond an expected limit |
| for old times’ sake | because of pleasant memories of the past |
| give someone the time of day | give someone attention |
| not give someone the time of day | deliberately ignore someone |
| in the interest of time | to save time |
| a stitch in time saves nine | early action prevents a bigger problem |
Commonly Confused Time Expressions
In Time vs. On Time
On time: at the planned time.
The bus arrived on time.
In time: early enough.
We arrived in time to catch the bus.
At Times vs. All the Time
At times: occasionally.
He can be impatient at times.
All the time: continuously or very frequently.
He complains all the time.
At the Time vs. At One Time
At the time: refers to a particular moment connected with an event.
I didn’t know about the problem at the time.
At one time: often means previously.
At one time, the company had 500 employees.
During vs. For
During identifies a period or event.
We met during the summer.
For describes duration.
We stayed there for three weeks.
This distinction is important when talking about periods of time. (Learn English Today)
Since vs. For
Since identifies when a period began.
I have lived here since 2020.
For identifies the length of the period.
I have lived here for six years.
By the Time
By the time means that something has happened or will have happened before another particular point or event.
By the time we arrived, the movie had started.
It is particularly useful when describing the relationship between two events. (Learn English Today)
How to Learn Phrases With Time
Trying to memorize a long list in one sitting is not the most effective approach. Instead, group expressions according to their meanings.
For example, learn these together for being punctual:
- on time
- in time
- in the nick of time
- at the last minute
Then learn expressions about urgency:
- against the clock
- race against time
- time is of the essence
- crunch time
Then expressions about repetition:
- time after time
- time and again
- from time to time
- every time
This approach makes the vocabulary easier to remember because you are learning related expressions rather than isolated phrases.
It is also useful to learn each expression in a complete sentence.
Instead of memorizing:
buy time = delay
learn:
The manager asked for another week to buy time.
The sentence shows you how the expression actually works.
Practice Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Phrase
Choose the best phrase to complete each sentence.
Select the correct choice
1. The train arrived exactly at 8:00, as scheduled. It arrived ________.
A. in time
B. on time
C. in no time
✅ B — on time
2. We reached the airport just before the gate closed. We arrived ________.
A. in the nick of time
B. at one time
C. for the time being
✅ A — in the nick of time
3. I am not permanently using this office. I am using it ________.
A. time after time
B. for the time being
C. time and again
✅ B — for the time being
4. She visits her old friends occasionally. She visits them ________.
A. from time to time
B. at all times
C. in no time
✅ A — from time to time
5. The deadline is tomorrow, and we have very little time left. We are working ________.
A. ahead of our time
B. against the clock
C. in due time
✅ B — against the clock
Show Exercise 1 Answers
- B — on time
- A — in the nick of time
- B — for the time being
- A — from time to time
- B — against the clock
Practice Exercise 2: Match the Phrase With Its Meaning
Match each phrase with its correct definition.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1. Time flies | B. Time passes quickly |
| 2. Buy time | C. Create extra time |
| 3. For the time being | A. Temporarily |
| 4. Stand the test of time | D. Remain successful for a long period |
| 5. Time will tell | E. The future will reveal the result |
Show Exercise 2 Answers
- B
- C
- A
- D
- E
Practice Exercise 3: Fill in the Blanks
Use the correct expression from the box: on time — time flies — take your time — in the meantime — time is running out
1. Please don’t hurry. Take your time and check your work carefully.
2. We have only ten minutes left. Time is running out.
3. The meeting started exactly at 9:00. Everyone arrived on time.
4. The doctor will arrive soon. In the meantime, please wait here.
5. I can’t believe the children are already teenagers. Time flies!
Show Exercise 3 Answers
- Take your time
- Time is running out
- On time
- In the meantime
- Time flies
Practice Exercise 4: Choose “In Time” or “On Time”
Choose the correct expression.
1. The plane departed at 7:00 exactly, so it left on time.
2. We arrived at the airport early enough to board the plane in time.
3. Please make sure your application is submitted on time.
4. Fortunately, the ambulance arrived in time to save the patient.
5. The meeting began at its scheduled time, so it began on time.
Show Exercise 4 Answers
- on time
- in time
- on time
- in time
- on time
Practice Exercise 5: Complete the Sentences With Time Idioms
Choose from: time after time — the time is ripe — time on your hands — a race against time — third time’s the charm
1. We have tried twice without success, but perhaps third time’s the charm.
2. The team has won the championship time after time.
3. We have only two hours to finish everything. It is a race against time.
4. He must have a lot of time on your hands to build such a detailed model.
5. The company has saved enough money and the market is growing. I think the time is ripe for expansion.
Show Exercise 5 Answers
- third time’s the charm
- time after time
- a race against time
- time on your hands
- the time is ripe
Practice Exercise 6: Identify the Meaning
What does the bold expression mean?
Select the correct meaning
1. We finished the project in no time.
A. Very slowly
B. Very quickly
C. At the scheduled time
✅ B — Very quickly
2. This old building has stood the test of time.
A. It has remained valuable or successful over many years.
B. It has been moved several times.
C. It was built recently.
✅ A — It has remained valuable or successful over many years.
3. I am short on time today.
A. I have plenty of free time.
B. I don’t have enough time.
C. I arrived early.
✅ B — I don’t have enough time.
4. We met from time to time.
A. Every day
B. Never
C. Occasionally
✅ C — Occasionally
5. Time will tell whether the plan succeeds.
A. A clock will decide.
B. The future will reveal the result.
C. The plan has already failed.
✅ B — The future will reveal the result.
Show Exercise 6 Answers
- B
- A
- B
- C
- B
Frequently Asked Questions About Phrases With Time
-
What are phrases with time?
Phrases with time are expressions containing the word time that communicate ideas about schedules, duration, frequency, urgency, opportunities, the past, the future, or the passage of time.
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What are the most common phrases with time?
Some of the most useful are on time, in time, from time to time, all the time, take your time, for the time being, in the meantime, time flies, time will tell, time after time, in the nick of time, and stand the test of time.
-
What is the difference between “in time” and “on time”?
On time means at the scheduled or agreed time. In time means before it is too late.
-
What does “time flies” mean?
Time flies means that time seems to pass very quickly.
-
What does “for the time being” mean?
It means temporarily or for now.
-
What does “in the nick of time” mean?
It means just before it is too late.
-
What does “time will tell” mean?
It means that the future will reveal what eventually happens.
-
What does “stand the test of time” mean?
It means that something remains successful, useful, respected, or effective despite the passage of many years.
-
What does “buy time” mean?
It means to create additional time, usually by delaying something temporarily.
-
What does “take your time” mean?
It means do not hurry.
-
What does “it’s about time” mean?
It usually expresses the feeling that something has happened later than it should have. Depending on the speaker’s tone, it can sound humorous, impatient, or critical.
-
What does “time is of the essence” mean?
It means that timing is extremely important and delay may cause a problem. It is more formal than many everyday time expressions.
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What does “in no time” mean?
It means very quickly.
-
What does “from time to time” mean?
It means occasionally.
-
What does “time after time” mean?
It means repeatedly.
-
What does “time on your hands” mean?
It means having free time, sometimes suggesting that a person has more free time than necessary.
-
What is the difference between “all the time” and “at all times”?
All the time generally means continuously or very frequently, while at all times means always or under every circumstance.
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Can phrases with time be used in formal writing?
Yes. Expressions such as in due time, in the interim, in the long run, at the time, with time, and time is of the essence can appear in formal writing. Some expressions, such as kill time or third time’s the charm, are much more informal.
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How can I remember time phrases easily?
Learn them according to meaning rather than alphabetically. For example, group together expressions about urgency, repetition, punctuality, duration, and the future. Then practice each phrase in your own sentence.
