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.
What is the difference between ON TIME and IN TIME? Watch my video lesson below and find out.
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.
Something happens that you have been waiting to happen for quite a while. It should have happened earlier.
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 its 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 its 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.
English Expressions about Time - Infographic
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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.
English Expressions with Time - Video Lesson
On time? In time? Sounds confusing, right?
Now when you know English expressions about time, let’s clear up this confusion once and for all with this short English learning video. Hope you enjoy it!
More Information
For more information on English Expressions, English Phrasal Verbs and English Grammar Rules, check out the following links:
HOW TO USE PHRASAL VERBS WITH COME
HOW TO DESCRIBE FOOD IN ENGLISH
IDIOMS AND PHRASES RELATED TO THANKSGIVING
Scroll down for more Expressions about Time.
English Expressions about Time - Continued
IN GOOD TIME
early, with pleanty of time to spare
For example:
We got to the cinems in good time, so we were able to get popcorn and drinks before the movie began.
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 d’Or.
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.
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.
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.
FROM TIME TO TIME
occasionally, sometimes
For example:
From time to time I go jogging in the park near the centre.
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.
BEHIND THE TIMES
old fashioned, out of date
For example:
My mum refuses to use Whatsapp, she is so behind the times.
Plenty of learning material is available on BBC Learning English and LearnEnglish British Council.
Expressions about Time - Image to share
