13 English Expressions about TIME for daily conversation

Learn 13 English expressions about TIME with meaning and examples. Learn common English expressions for daily conversation.

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What is the difference between ON TIME and IN TIME? Watch my video lesson below and find out.

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English Expressions about TIME

Time is something we may have plenty of (if we are retired) or not enough of if we are in full-time employment and/or looking after a young family. Here are some useful English expressions about TIME. englishclass101

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English Expressions about Time

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. englishclass101

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.

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.

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. englishclass101

English Expressions about Time

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.

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.’

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.