Clocks rule our days — waking us up, hurrying us along, and reminding us that time rarely waits. It’s no surprise that English is full of idioms inspired by ticking hands and racing minutes. These expressions capture our everyday relationship with time: the rush, the pressure, the deadlines, and those fleeting moments when every second counts.
Against the clock
Meaning: To work under time pressure.
Example: She finished her project against the clock before submission time.
Beat the clock
Meaning: To complete something before time runs out.
Example: They beat the clock and sent the report just before 5 pm.
Around the clock
Meaning: All day and night without stopping.
Example: Volunteers worked around the clock during the school fest.
On the dot
Meaning: Exactly on time.
Example: The class began on the dot at 9 am.
Race against time
Meaning: To hurry because time is limited.
Example: They raced against time to decorate the hall.
Clock in / clock out
Meaning: To record the time of arrival or departure.
Example: Teachers clock in using a digital system every morning.
Time is ticking
Meaning: A reminder that the deadline is approaching.
Example: Time was ticking as teams prepared their final presentations.
Turn back the clock
Meaning: To return to an earlier period.
Example: Visiting her old school felt like turning back the clock.
Do something in no time
Meaning: Very quickly.
Example: He solved the puzzle in no time.
Call time on something
Meaning: To end an activity.
Example: The referee called time on the match.
Make time
Meaning: To intentionally set aside time for something.
Example: She made time to practise her speech every evening.
Buy time
Meaning: To delay so you can prepare.
Example: He asked a question to buy time before answering.
Behind the times
Meaning: Old-fashioned.
Example: His phone is so outdated — he’s really behind the times.
Third time’s the charm
Meaning: Success often comes on the third attempt.
Example: After two misses, her third try was the charm.