Learn 13 English expressions about TIME with meaning and examples.

Learn 13 English expressions about TIME with meaning and examples.

1. About Time

We may have been waiting a while for a bus or for a service to be provided and when eventually that bus arrives or the service is eventually provided we can use the phrase it’s about time.

Something happens that you have been waiting to happen for quite a while. It should have happened earlier.

The expression about time has many uses.

For example:

– I have decided to go to the doctor and tell him about that problem I have been having.

– Good, it is about time you did. Your health is important.

Or

Don’t you think it’s about time you went to the gym? You have put on a bit of weight you need to watch it.

2. Time To Go

When you know you have had enough or have overstayed (stayed too long) your welcome at a party then it’s definitely time to go! It means it is a good idea to leave.

We can also use it to indicate to somebody that you have to leave in order to catch a train or a plane or to make it to the cinema in time.

It’s time to go. The show starts in 40 minutes.

3. Time Is Money

A favourite phrase/expression of business people.

A lot of self-employed and professional people charge hourly rates for their services. They do not usually like to waste time talking to someone if it is unproductive and time they cannot charge for.

For example:

Michael met his friend on the street. They spoke for 20 minutes then Michael looked at his watch and told his friend that time is money! If he was late for the meeting he may not get paid.

4. Time Is On Your Side

There is no rush to do something or make an immediate decision. You have time to think about it.

For example:

Catherine was talking to her mother about her university studies. She was anxious to finish and begin her career. Her mother advised her to relax.

‘Don’t worry so much, take your time. Finish your degree course. Time is on your side, you are young.’

5. Time For A Change

Sometimes we put up with something even though we would like to change. We do this either because we are lazy or have got used to it or are not sure if a change will necessarily improve matters.

However, there comes a time (it becomes obvious) when a change is absolutely necessary. It’s time for a change.

For example:

John had been doing the same job for fifteen years. He discussed it with his wife and decided to quit his job and start his own business. It was definitely time for a change.

Time is what we want most but what we use worst.

6. In Good Time

For example:

We got to the cinema in good time, so we were able to get popcorn and drinks before the movie began.

7. A Matter Of Time

something which is certain to happen sooner or later in the future

For example:

I think it’s just a matter of time for him to win Ballon.

8. All In Good Time

something will happen eventually when the time is right, you just have to be patient

For example:

He will find out all in good time whether it all works out.

9. At One Time

at a time in the past

For example:

At one time I used to go to the theatre every week, but when we moved out of London it became more difficult. englishclass101

10. In The Nick Of Time

just before it would have been too late

For example:

Thankfully we managed to check in and get to the gate in the nick of time for our flight.

11. From Time To Time

occasionally, sometimes

For example:

From time to time I go jogging in the park near the centre.

12. Time’s Up!

there’s no time left, no more time is allowed to do something

For example:

Time’s up! Put your pencils down and pass your exam papers forward.

13. Behind The Times

old-fashioned, out of date

For example:

My mum refuses to use Whatsapp, she is so behind the times.