Time Idioms
There are lots of English expressions using time. Your time is precious - which is why we've summarised the most common time idioms into one blog. Spend five minutes reading this post and you will improve your English knowledge.
1. BEAT THE CLOCK
Meaning: To succeed in something before time is up.
Example: “Burcu beat the clock and booked a Kaplan English course before prices increased!”
2. TURN BACK THE HANDS OF TIME
Meaning: To go back to the past.
Example: “Phil had to turn back the hands of time and wear his tracksuit from the 1990s for a fancy dress party.”
3. KILL TIME
Meaning: Do something not particularly interesting to pass time.
Example: “Mike arrived to the party early so he had to kill time before entering the venue.”
4. ONCE IN A BLUE MOON
Meaning: Something that happens very rarely.
Example: “Rob buys a round at the bar once in a blue moon.”
5. BEHIND THE TIMES
Meaning: Being old fashioned.
Example: “Chase is behind the times because he just listens to Simon & Garfunkel all day."
6. TIME FLIES
Meaning: When time passes quickly.
Example: “Time flies at a party because you’re having so much fun!”
7. WASTING TIME
Meaning: Doing something with no purpose.
Example: “Hazel was just wasting time at the bus stop playing on her phone.”
8. THE BIG TIME
Meaning: The top level of a profession.
Example: “Leo made the big time when he was promoted the boss of the company."
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