time
time — verb
- timepresent simple I / you / we / they
- times3rd person singular
- timing-ing form
- timedpast simple
1. to choose a specific moment for an event or activity to happen, especially by pl
to choose a specific moment for an event or activity to happen, especially by planning ahead
The conference was timed to start at nine in the morning.
passive: be timed to [infinitive]
Omar timed his visit to the museum for a quiet Tuesday afternoon.
active: time + noun + for + time phrase
The school timed the final exam to finish before the winter break.
Yuki timed her speech to begin right after the awards ceremony.
The train service is timed so that passengers can easily catch the ferry.
文法句型
time + noun + to-infinitive
time + noun + for + noun
用法筆記
Often used in the passive voice when the subject is the event itself rather than the person arranging it. The direct object must be the event or activity being scheduled, not a person.
常見錯誤
2. to make an action take place at exactly the right moment, producing the most des
to make an action take place at exactly the right moment, producing the most desirable outcome
Kabir timed his joke perfectly and the whole class burst out laughing.
adverb: time [noun] perfectly
The gardener timed the planting carefully so the flowers would bloom for the festival.
adverb: time [noun] carefully
Renata timed her entrance to the party just as the music started playing.
The chef timed the sauce to be ready exactly when the pasta was cooked.
The sales team timed their discount campaign to launch just before the holiday shopping rush.
- coordinate
emphasises matching several actions together
- synchronise
more precise; means making things happen at exactly the same moment
文法句型
time + noun + well/perfectly/carefully
用法筆記
Often paired with adverbs like 'well', 'perfectly', 'carefully', or 'badly' to comment on the quality of the timing. The focus is on achieving a desired effect rather than merely scheduling.
常見錯誤
3. to use a stopwatch, clock, or other device to measure how many seconds, minutes,
to use a stopwatch, clock, or other device to measure how many seconds, minutes, or hours something lasts or how fast it is
The coach timed each runner with a stopwatch during practice.
time + noun + with + device
Élise timed how long it took to boil the water for her morning tea.
time + how long + clause
Sumin timed how fast the ice melted in warm water for her science project.
Heloísa timed her daughter swimming laps to check if her speed was improving.
Nadia timed herself while she ran three laps around the school track.
文法句型
time + noun
time + how long / how fast + clause
用法筆記
Common in sports, science experiments, and cooking contexts. The device used (stopwatch, timer, clock) is often introduced with 'with'. Can take a wh-clause ('how long', 'how fast') as its object.
常見錯誤
time — noun
- timesingular
- timesplural
1. The continuous movement of all existence from past to future, which humans divid
The continuous movement of all existence from past to future, which humans divide into units such as minutes, hours, and years in order to measure it.
Theo did not notice how much time had passed while reading his book.
collocation: time passes
The old clock in the village square has measured time for over a hundred years.
Young children often feel that time moves very slowly before their birthday arrives.
Photographs from the past show us how time gradually changes faces and places.
Over time the small garden grew into a wild forest full of birds and flowers.
文法句型
time + verb (passes / goes by / flies)
over time
through time
用法筆記
This sense is uncountable and refers to the abstract concept. It is rarely used with the article 'a' or in plural form. Common verbs that pair with it include 'pass', 'go by', 'fly', and 'move'.
常見錯誤
2. The full span during which something is happening or someone is present, without
The full span during which something is happening or someone is present, without any breaks or interruptions.
The baby cried the whole time during the long car journey to the beach.
fixed phrase: 'the whole time'
Keiko kept checking her watch the entire time the meeting was running late.
The construction crew played music most of the time while building the new school.
Grandpa tells stories about his childhood almost all the time when we visit him.
- throughout
preposition, not a noun; used similarly: 'throughout the day'
文法句型
the whole time
all the time
the entire time
most of the time
用法筆記
This sense appears in three common fixed phrases: 'all the time' (= continuously or very often), 'the whole time' (= throughout a specific period), and 'most of the time' (= on most occasions). Distinguish from sense 5 (CONSTANTLY TRUE), which uses 'at all times' in a more formal, rule-like manner.
常見錯誤
3. A very brief period, used especially in the fixed expression 'in no time' to emp
A very brief period, used especially in the fixed expression 'in no time' to emphasise that something happens or is done with surprising speed.
The ambulance arrived in no time at all after the emergency call was made.
fixed phrase: 'in no time at all'
Dmitri finished his maths homework in no time and then went outside to play.
fixed phrase: 'in no time'
The children cleaned the kitchen in no time when they heard about ice cream.
With the bullet train you can reach Kyoto from Tokyo in no time.
Mayumi unpacked all the moving boxes in no time with her sister helping her.
- slowly
adverb; the opposite of speed, used with actions
文法句型
in no time
in no time at all
用法筆記
Almost always occurs in the fixed phrase 'in no time' or its variant 'in no time at all'. The phrase always follows a verb describing the action. It is informal and common in everyday conversation.
常見錯誤
4. A situation in which one must act immediately because any delay would cause some
A situation in which one must act immediately because any delay would cause something important to be missed, lost, or ruined.
There is no time to lose if we want to catch the last train home.
fixed phrase: 'there is no time to lose'
The firefighter knew there was no time to lose when smoke filled the hallway.
The research team had no time to lose before the storm damaged their equipment.
Amara realised there was no time to lose and called for help on her phone.
文法句型
there is no time to lose
have no time to lose
用法筆記
Always found in the fixed expression 'have no time to lose' or 'there is no time to lose'. It is followed by a to-infinitive or a clause describing what needs to be done urgently. Frequently used in storytelling to build urgency.
常見錯誤
5. Every moment without exception; used to describe something that is permanently t
Every moment without exception; used to describe something that is permanently the case, always expected, or required on every occasion.
The hospital entrance must remain clear at all times for emergency vehicles.
fixed phrase: 'at all times' (rule/requirement)
The flight attendant reminded passengers to keep their seat belts fastened at all times.
My grandmother always says that we should treat other people with kindness at all times.
The lifeguard on duty is expected to watch the swimming pool carefully at all times.
- always
adverb; less formal, used in everyday speech
- constantly
adverb; emphasises continuous, uninterrupted action
- never
adverb; at no time
文法句型
at all times
用法筆記
Appears almost exclusively in the fixed phrase 'at all times', which is more formal than 'always'. Common in official rules, signs, safety instructions, and formal recommendations. Distinguish from sense 2 (WHOLE PERIOD), where 'all the time' is less formal and more conversational.
常見錯誤
6. Used after a superlative adjective to refer to every person or thing throughout
Used after a superlative adjective to refer to every person or thing throughout history without limit, emphasising that nothing else in the past compares.
Many people consider Pelé to be the greatest football player of all time.
fixed phrase: 'of all time' after superlative
That was the most delicious noodle soup I have ever tasted in all my life.
The museum claims to have the largest collection of dinosaur fossils of all time.
Einstein is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant scientists of all time.
This song is frequently named among the most popular love songs of all time.
- ever
adverb; used similarly in 'the best ever', less formal
文法句型
superlative + of all time
用法筆記
Always follows a superlative or 'one of the' + superlative structure. The phrase 'of all time' cannot be used alone — it requires a preceding superlative. The variant 'in all my life' serves a similar function for personal experience rather than all of history.
常見錯誤
7. a set of rules that a country or region follows for measuring and naming the hou
a set of rules that a country or region follows for measuring and naming the hours of the day, including the time zone it belongs to and whether it uses daylight saving time
Passengers flying from London to Singapore had to calculate the time difference between two systems.
collocation: time difference / time system
Paloma's phone updated to local time automatically when she landed in Cairo.
The train timetable listed all departures according to Central European Time.
Adina checked what time system her relatives used before calling them in Argentina.
- time zone
refers specifically to the geographic band, not the whole system of rules
- standard time
more limited — excludes daylight saving adjustments
文法句型
the [name] time system
[region] time
用法筆記
Often appears with a place name or region, as in Eastern Time, Pacific Time, or Japan Standard Time.
8. a period that you can use for a particular activity, especially when you are not
a period that you can use for a particular activity, especially when you are not busy with other things
Esme did not have time for lunch because her next class started in ten minutes.
pattern: have time for [noun phrase]
Jack made time in his busy week to visit his grandmother at the hospital.
pattern: make time to [verb]
The manager set aside time on Friday to review each team member's progress.
Do you have any time this afternoon to help me carry the boxes upstairs?
There is always time for a short walk after dinner before the sun goes down.
文法句型
have time for [noun phrase]
have time to [verb]
用法筆記
Commonly used with have, make, set aside, or find. Followed by for + noun phrase or to + infinitive.
常見錯誤
9. a sufficient amount of hours or minutes needed to do something without rushing
a sufficient amount of hours or minutes needed to do something without rushing
Nadia saw there was still time to buy groceries before the shop closed.
pattern: there is (still) time to [verb]
We have plenty of time before the film starts, so let us grab a drink.
collocation: plenty of time
Jisoo finished the exam with time to spare and checked her answers twice.
The chef did not have enough time to finish the special dessert before guests arrived.
There was barely enough time to change clothes before the wedding ceremony began.
- sufficient time
more formal; used in official or written contexts
- shortage of time
the opposite situation where time is insufficient
文法句型
there is (enough/plenty of) time to [verb]
have enough time to [verb]
用法筆記
Frequently appears with enough, plenty of, or still. The negative form (not enough time) is equally common.
常見錯誤
10. a period that you do not need to use productively, so you can fill it with any a
a period that you do not need to use productively, so you can fill it with any activity or simply let it pass
Kemi had time to kill before her flight, so she walked around the airport shops.
idiom: have time to kill
The children spent the whole afternoon wasting time on video games instead of studying.
pattern: waste time [verb]-ing
Darius hates wasting time in traffic, so he plays language lessons on his commute.
We had time left after the tour, so we sat for coffee near the fountain.
Christopher stopped wasting time arguing and agreed to the plan.
- leisure time
more specific — implies relaxation, not just any unfilled time
- busy time
a period filled with urgent tasks
文法句型
have time to kill
waste time [verb]-ing
spend time [verb]-ing
用法筆記
Often appears in expressions like have time to kill (informal), waste time, or spend time. The focus is on using time without a defined productive goal.
常見錯誤
11. a situation in which the available minutes or hours run out before a task can be
a situation in which the available minutes or hours run out before a task can be finished
Mira ran out of time before she answered the last three test questions.
verb phrase: run out of time
The basketball team had no time left to make another shot before the buzzer rang.
When the fire crew arrived, there was no time to save the old wooden barn.
Élise realized she was running out of time to submit her application before the deadline.
- deadline
a noun referring to the end point, not the shortage itself
- time to spare
extra time remaining after finishing
文法句型
run out of time
have no time left
用法筆記
Almost always used in negative or urgent contexts — run out of time, have no time left, there is no time. The sense describes a shortage, not a neutral amount.
常見錯誤
12. a state of having very few minutes or hours available, making it necessary to ac
a state of having very few minutes or hours available, making it necessary to act quickly or skip non-essential tasks
The doctor was short of time and could only see each patient for five minutes.
phrase: be short of time
I am pressed for time, so please send me the details in an email.
phrase: be pressed for time
With two days until the wedding, the family had little time to fix the decorations.
Paloma was short on time but still helped the lost tourist find the station.
- in a hurry
adjectival; describes the person's feeling rather than the resource
- plenty of time
having more than enough time
文法句型
be short of time
be pressed for time
have little time
用法筆記
Similar to sense 11 (RUN OUT), but emphasizes the continuous state of being busy or hurried rather than the moment when time reaches zero. Common in apologies and polite refusals.
常見錯誤
13. used when the permitted duration for a task, test, or event has come to an end a
used when the permitted duration for a task, test, or event has come to an end and no additional moments remain
The teacher told the students their time was up, so they had to put down their pencils.
collocation: time is up / time was up
Kian checked the parking meter and saw that his time was about to run out.
collocation: time runs out
When the referee called time, both boxers stopped fighting and returned to their corners.
Paloma glanced at the clock and realised her time on the computer was almost gone.
用法筆記
This sense is different from sense 10 (RUN OUT OF TIME) — sense 10 describes not having enough minutes to finish a task, while this sense describes the moment when the allowed period ends completely, regardless of completion.
常見錯誤
14. the extra period that an official adds onto a football match to make up for mome
the extra period that an official adds onto a football match to make up for moments when play was stopped, such as when injured players received treatment
United scored the winning goal in stoppage time, just seconds before the final whistle.
sports term: stoppage time / injury time / added time
The referee added five minutes of injury time after the long delay for medical treatment on the field.
Christopher could not believe it when his team conceded a goal in the fourth minute of added time.
Fans were already heading for the exits when the match entered stoppage time with the score still level.
- injury time
the same concept, emphasising that time was lost due to player injuries
- added time
another name for the same concept, common in official match reports
用法筆記
Common in British English football commentary. Also called 'injury time' or 'added time.' In American English, similar concepts exist in other sports (e.g. 'overtime' in basketball) but 'stoppage time' is specific to association football (soccer).
15. a particular period or duration during which something happens or is needed
a particular period or duration during which something happens or is needed
Nellie spent a long time in the hospital recovering from the operation.
pattern: spend + time + (in/doing something)
The meeting went on for a short time, only about twenty minutes in total.
Esteban worked at the bank for a time before deciding to go back to school.
Vikram spent a long time learning to repair old bicycles in his grandfather's garage.
Stephanie waited a long time for the bus in the rain before it finally arrived.
用法筆記
Countable in singular when referring to a specific period ('a long time'), uncountable when referring to duration in general ('I have no time'). Distinguish from sense 18 (LONG PERIOD), which refers specifically to a fairly extended duration, while this sense covers any length.
常見錯誤
16. a period when someone stops working or doing their usual activities, usually in
a period when someone stops working or doing their usual activities, usually in order to rest, travel, or deal with personal matters
Rachid decided to take some time off from work to travel around Southeast Asia.
collocation: take time off (from work)
The company gives all employees paid time off during the winter holidays.
collocation: paid time off
Anong asked her manager for time off to attend her brother's wedding in Chiang Mai.
After the busy season finished, the whole team was told to take some time off to recharge.
- work time
periods when one is expected to be working
用法筆記
Often appears in fixed expressions such as 'take time off,' 'have time off,' 'ask for time off,' and 'get time off.' The preposition 'from' introduces what the person is taking a break from. Distinguish from sense 17 (SHORT WHILE), which is about a brief duration of any activity, not specifically a break from work.
常見錯誤
17. a short period or brief duration
a short period or brief duration
Aarav sat down for a short time to drink some water before continuing the climb.
collocation: for a short time
The rain stopped for a little while, so we went outside to enjoy the fresh air.
James waited only a short time before the bus finally arrived at the station.
Jude rested for a time after the long walk and then felt well enough to continue.
- a long time
an extended duration, the opposite of a short period
用法筆記
Often used in phrases like 'a short time,' 'a little while,' 'for a time,' and 'in a short time.' The expressions 'a short time' and 'a little while' are interchangeable in most contexts. Distinguish from sense 15 (PERIOD), which is neutral about length — this sense emphasises brevity.
常見錯誤
18. a fairly long or extended period of time
a fairly long or extended period of time
Christopher lived in Mexico for a long time before moving back to Canada.
collocation: for a long time
It took a long time for the hospital to receive the medical supplies after the storm.
Eri had not seen her childhood friends for such a long time that she almost did not recognise them.
The court case went on for a long time, lasting nearly two years from start to finish.
- ages
informal; 'I have not seen you in ages' — more emphatic than 'a long time'
- an extended period
more formal; used in written or professional contexts
- a long while
slightly more literary; interchangeable with 'a long time'
- a short time
a brief period, the opposite of a long time
用法筆記
Common in the fixed expression 'for a long time' to indicate an extended duration. 'A long time' can also be used without 'for' in subject position ('A long time has passed'). Distinguish from sense 15 (PERIOD), which is neutral regarding length — this sense emphasises the extended nature of the time.
常見錯誤
19. happening or continuing only through a short stretch of time, without lasting pe
happening or continuing only through a short stretch of time, without lasting permanently
Christopher worked as a taxi driver for a time after losing his job.
adverbial phrase 'for a time' = temporarily
The rain stopped for a time, so the children went outside to play.
For a time, the old lighthouse was used as a small museum.
The company's profits rose for a time, then fell again.
Élise shared a flat with two friends for a time after university.
- temporarily
more direct adverb; 'for a time' is slightly more literary
- briefly
emphasises short duration more strongly
- momentarily
even shorter; 'for a time' suggests longer than a moment
- permanently
opposite meaning — ongoing without end
- forever
stronger opposite, emphasising endlessness
文法句型
for a time
用法筆記
Commonly appears as the fixed adverbial phrase 'for a time.' Unlike sense 15 (PERIOD), which refers to a measurable duration, this sense emphasises that the situation is temporary.
20. a polite word used instead of 'period' when talking about a woman's monthly flow
a polite word used instead of 'period' when talking about a woman's monthly flow of blood from the womb
Hiro asked his partner if it was that time of the month.
common phrase: 'that time of the month'
Many schools now teach students about the time of the month without embarrassment.
The nurse told Yael that her time would probably come every twenty-eight days.
Sahil felt shy at first about buying pads during her time of the month.
- period
the standard word; 'time' is a softer alternative
- menstruation
formal medical term
文法句型
time of the month
her time
用法筆記
Almost always used with a possessive determiner ('her time', 'my time') or in the fixed phrase 'time of the month.' Avoid in formal medical writing — use 'menstruation' or 'period' instead.
常見錯誤
21. a measurement of the present moment of the day, taken from a watch, phone, or si
a measurement of the present moment of the day, taken from a watch, phone, or similar device
What time does the last bus leave tonight?
question pattern: 'what time...?' for asking about clock time
Diego checked the time on his phone before the meeting started.
The time on the old clock in the hall was ten past two.
Can you tell me what time the museum opens on Sundays?
Jin looked at his wristwatch to check the time before the train arrived.
- hour
narrower — usually refers to the exact hour (e.g. 3 o'clock)
- clock reading
more technical; 'time' is the everyday term
文法句型
what time...?
the time is...
at...time
用法筆記
Frequently appears in the question pattern 'What time...?' and in reported time expressions ('the time is…'). Unlike sense 22 (MOMENT OF EVENT), this sense refers strictly to readings from a clock.
常見錯誤
22. the exact point in time at which an event takes place or an action is performed
the exact point in time at which an event takes place or an action is performed
By the time Reuben called the agent, the house had already been sold.
conjunction pattern: 'by the time [clause]'
At the time of the accident, Hoa was driving home from work.
prepositional phrase: 'at the time of [noun]'
The police arrived just in time to see the car drive away.
Tariro was still living at home at the time her sister got married.
At this time last year, Sari was travelling through South America.
文法句型
at the time of
by the time
at this time
用法筆記
This sense typically appears in fixed prepositional phrases: 'at the time (that/of),' 'by the time,' 'at this/that time.' Distinguish from sense 21 (CLOCK TIME), which is about what a clock shows rather than the moment an event occurs.
常見錯誤
23. the situation when two or more events occur during the same moment or period
the situation when two or more events occur during the same moment or period
Jabari tried to cook dinner and help his son with homework at the same time.
fixed phrase 'at the same time' for simultaneous actions
Two trains arrived at the station at exactly the same time.
The film was released in Europe and Asia at the same time.
Cyrus cannot read and listen to music at the same time.
Heloísa laughed and cried at the same time when she heard the news.
- simultaneously
more formal; 'at the same time' is everyday English
- at once
slightly less common; can also mean 'immediately'
- separately
not at the same time; one after another
文法句型
at the same time
用法筆記
Always appears in the fixed phrase 'at the same time.' Unlike sense 36 (OCCASION, 'at the same time' = nevertheless), this sense expresses literal simultaneity.
常見錯誤
24. the current stage of a person's life, especially when they are older rather than
the current stage of a person's life, especially when they are older rather than young
At his time of life, Eli prefers a quiet evening to a loud party.
fixed phrase 'at [possessive] time of life'
My grandmother says at her time of life she cannot learn new technology.
At my time of life, I have learned not to worry about small things.
Tanvi's father says at his time of life, health matters more than money.
- at this stage
broader — can refer to any phase; 'time of life' implies older age
- at my age
more direct and common; 'time of life' is slightly gentler
文法句型
at [possessive] time of life
用法筆記
Always used with a possessive determiner in the fixed phrase 'at [my/his/her/their] time of life.' Almost always implies the person is middle-aged or elderly, not young. Distinguish from sense 21 (CLOCK TIME) and sense 22 (MOMENT OF EVENT).
常見錯誤
25. a particular moment during the day, year, or process when conditions are good en
a particular moment during the day, year, or process when conditions are good enough for a particular action or event to take place
Tomás thought it was the right time to ask for a pay rise.
pattern: 'the right time to [verb]'
Spring is the best time to plant tomato seeds in the garden.
The wedding invitations arrived, but it was not a good time for us to travel.
Yuna decided that now was not the time to discuss the problem.
There is a time for work and a time for rest, said the old teacher.
文法句型
time to [verb]
the right time for [noun]
用法筆記
Frequently appears in the patterns 'the right/good time to [verb]' and 'a time for [noun].' The negative form 'not the time' is common for saying a moment is unsuitable. Distinguish from sense 26 (IN TIME) which is about being early enough, and from sense 31 ('the most suitable moment') which emphasises optimal timing rather than general suitability.
常見錯誤
26. the state of arriving or finishing early enough to allow something else to happe
the state of arriving or finishing early enough to allow something else to happen or be done
Jude ran to the station and arrived just in time to catch the train.
fixed phrase 'just in time' = barely early enough
The team finished the project in time for the Friday deadline.
pattern: 'in time for [noun/deadline]'
Pedro hoped the ambulance would arrive in time to save the injured man.
The doctor said the treatment came just in time to stop the infection.
Élise got to the airport in time, even though her taxi was late.
- early enough
more literal paraphrase; 'in time' is the idiomatic phrase
- with time to spare
more emphatic; means earlier than necessary
- too late
the opposite — arriving after the event has started or finished
文法句型
in time for [noun]
in time to [verb]
just in time
用法筆記
Always appears in the fixed prepositional phrase 'in time (for [noun] / to [verb]).' The adverb 'just' commonly intensifies it ('just in time'). Distinguish from sense 27 (ON TIME) — 'in time' means early enough for a purpose, while 'on time' means at the scheduled exact moment.
常見錯誤
27. the quality of happening or being done at the exact scheduled moment, neither ea
the quality of happening or being done at the exact scheduled moment, neither earlier nor later than expected
The high-speed train from Taipei arrived on time at the central station.
common context: transport arriving on time
Faisal is very punctual and always pays his rent on time.
The school bus rarely comes on time during heavy rain.
All students must hand in their homework on time every Friday.
Linh's flight landed on time despite the storm in the area.
- punctually
more formal; 'on time' is the everyday phrase
- on schedule
often used for projects or events; 'on time' is broader
- late
the opposite — after the scheduled time
- behind schedule
used for longer-term plans or projects
文法句型
on time
用法筆記
Always appears in the fixed adverbial phrase 'on time.' Unlike sense 26 (IN TIME), which means 'early enough for a purpose,' this sense means 'at the exact scheduled time.' 'Punctual' is the adjective form.
常見錯誤
28. the state of being done or happening before a planned or expected moment, leavin
the state of being done or happening before a planned or expected moment, leaving extra room before a deadline
Christopher booked his train tickets two weeks ahead of time to get a discount.
adverbial phrase 'ahead of time' = earlier than necessary
The builders finished the renovation three days ahead of time.
Yasmin prepared all the documents ahead of time so there would be no delay.
The school asked parents to pay the fee ahead of time for the field trip.
Walid set up the chairs ahead of time before the guests arrived.
- early
simpler and more direct; 'ahead of time' is more emphatic
- beforehand
similar meaning; 'ahead of time' is more common in everyday speech
- behind schedule
the opposite — later than planned
- late
simpler opposite
文法句型
ahead of time
ahead of schedule
用法筆記
Appears in the fixed phrases 'ahead of time' or 'ahead of schedule.' 'Ahead of schedule' is more common for projects and deadlines. Distinguish from sense 26 (IN TIME) — 'ahead of time' means earlier than the deadline, while 'in time' means early enough to meet it.
常見錯誤
29. a phrase expressing that an expected event or action has been delayed far too lo
a phrase expressing that an expected event or action has been delayed far too long and ought to have taken place already
It is about time the city government fixed these broken street lights.
pattern: 'it is about time (that) + past tense clause'
Joshua thought it was high time he looked for a better job.
variant: 'it is high time (that)' = even stronger urgency
It is about time the landlord repaired the broken heater in Rachid's apartment building.
The manager admitted it was high time the company updated its computers.
It is about time we had a proper holiday after three years of hard work.
- high time
stronger and more emphatic than 'about time'
- long overdue
adjective phrase with similar meaning; more formal
文法句型
it is about time (that)
it is high time (that)
用法筆記
Followed by a clause with the verb in the past tense, even though the meaning refers to the present or future. 'High time' is stronger and more emphatic than 'about time.' Distinguish from sense 30 (FINALLY) which is an exclamation when the anticipated event actually occurs.
常見錯誤
30. an exclamation used when something that was expected or needed for a long time f
an exclamation used when something that was expected or needed for a long time finally happens, expressing relief or mild annoyance at the delay
So you finally passed your driving test — and about time too!
fixed phrase: 'and about time too!' as an exclamation
The government announced a new hospital for the town, and about time, everyone said.
Yuna got a promotion after six years. About time, her colleagues whispered.
The landlord finally fixed the leaky pipe. About time, the tenants thought.
文法句型
and about time too
about time!
用法筆記
An informal exclamation, often used as a standalone response or added after the statement ('…and about time too!'). The clause before it often uses 'finally.' Distinguish from sense 29 (ABOUT TIME), which is a statement of opinion that something should happen; this sense is the reaction when it actually does happen.
常見錯誤
31. used to say that a particular moment has arrived and something should happen now
used to say that a particular moment has arrived and something should happen now, because it is the right or expected point for it — for example, saying it is time to leave, or it is time for a break.
It's time to turn off your computer and go home.
it is time + to-infinitive for obligation
The teacher looked at the clock and said it was time for lunch.
it is time + for + noun phrase
Is it not time that we started the meeting?
Sofia glanced at the clock and knew it was time to leave the office.
After ten years of arguing, the neighbours decided it was time for a proper conversation.
文法句型
it is time + to-infinitive
it is time + for + noun
it is time + that-clause (subjunctive)
用法筆記
The that-clause after 'it is time' usually uses a past subjunctive verb form ('it is time we went', not 'it is time we go'). This pattern is more common in British English.
常見錯誤
32. the word for a specific event or moment in a person's life, including how it fel
the word for a specific event or moment in a person's life, including how it felt — for instance, having a wonderful time at the beach, or remembering the time you first rode a bicycle.
The last time I saw Tariq was at the train station in Taipei.
the last time + clause
The children had a wonderful time at the zoo watching the pandas.
have + adjective + time
At the time of the accident, Reuben was cycling home from school.
Remember the time we got lost in the old market downtown?
Ayana recalled the difficult time her family went through after the flood.
- occasion
more formal than 'time' when referring to an event
- instance
used more in formal or written contexts
- experience
focuses on what you felt during the occasion
文法句型
have a + adjective + time
the first/last time
at the time
time + for + noun phrase
用法筆記
When 'time' refers to an occasion, it is countable ('three times', 'a lovely time'). When it means a stretch of hours or days, it is uncountable ('I have no time').
常見錯誤
33. on some rare occasions, but much less often than usual — used when something gen
on some rare occasions, but much less often than usual — used when something genuinely does not happen as a regular pattern
At times, Christopher misses the quiet village where he grew up.
sentence-starting: At times, ...
The job can be stressful at times, but Ilan enjoys the challenge.
end-position: ... at times
At times the rain was so heavy that the driver could not see the road.
Piotr's grandmother can be forgetful at times, but her stories are always wonderful.
- sometimes
more neutral and common than 'at times'
- occasionally
similar frequency but slightly more formal
- from time to time
similar meaning, slightly more emphatic
文法句型
at times
用法筆記
'At times' can appear at the beginning or end of a sentence. It expresses a lower frequency than 'sometimes' and slightly more formal.
常見錯誤
34. repeatedly, happening many times over a period — used when the same thing keeps
repeatedly, happening many times over a period — used when the same thing keeps occurring, often with a tone of frustration, emphasis, or insistence.
Time after time, the fire alarm went off in the middle of the night.
time after time + clause
Rodrigo told the children time and again not to run near the pool.
time and again — telling/asking repeatedly
The researchers ran the experiment time after time until they got consistent results.
Quan has proved time and again that hard work can lead to great success.
- repeatedly
more formal, less emotional than 'time after time'
- over and over
similar meaning, slightly less formal
- again and again
interchangeable with 'time and again'
文法句型
time after time
time and again
time and time again
用法筆記
These expressions are interchangeable. 'Time and again' is slightly more common in spoken English. The repeated action is often one that the speaker finds notable, annoying, or impressive.
常見錯誤
35. on most occasions or for the majority of a period — used to describe what usuall
on most occasions or for the majority of a period — used to describe what usually or typically happens, though not always.
Most of the time, Yan takes the MRT to work instead of driving.
sentence-starting: Most of the time, ...
The café is quiet most of the time, except during lunch hour.
end-position: ... most of the time
Zayd is cheerful most of the time, but today he seems worried about something.
Ravindra's phone battery lasts most of the day, so he rarely carries a charger.
- usually
one word, simpler, interchangeable
- more often than not
same meaning, slightly more formal or emphatic
- typically
used more in written or formal English
- rarely
opposite meaning — almost never
- occasionally
opposite in degree — only sometimes
文法句型
most of the time
用法筆記
Can also be used with specific time periods ('most of the day', 'most of the week'). The expression 'more often than not' is a close synonym.
常見錯誤
36. continuously or very frequently, without stopping or almost without stopping — u
continuously or very frequently, without stopping or almost without stopping — used when something happens throughout a period or keeps happening again and again.
The baby cried all night, so Sofia did not get any sleep.
all + [time period] — continuous throughout
Christopher's phone buzzes all the time with messages from work.
all the time — very frequently
The traffic lights on this street are broken all the time.
Tariq wears his grandfather's watch all the time, even when swimming.
- constantly
more formal; implies no breaks
- always
simpler and more common, though 'always' can suggest every single time
- continuously
formal; emphasizes unbroken duration
文法句型
all the time
用法筆記
'All the time' can mean either 'continuously without pause' or 'very often'. Context tells the difference: 'The fan runs all the time' = continuously; 'She calls me all the time' = very often.
常見錯誤
37. the specific clock time on a particular day, used when locating or scheduling wh
the specific clock time on a particular day, used when locating or scheduling when something happens or happened
By the time Noa reached the station, the last train had already left.
phrase: 'by the time' + past perfect
The nurse said she would check on the patient at the same time every evening.
Rohan usually takes his dog for a walk around this time each morning.
At what time does the library open on Sundays?
用法筆記
This sense emphasises a clock-based reference point on a specific day (e.g. 'same time every evening', 'by the time I arrived'). Distinguish from sense 22 (MOMENT OF EVENT), which marks the general point when an event occurs regardless of the clock reading.
38. at various specific moments or during particular points in a period, without nec
at various specific moments or during particular points in a period, without necessarily commenting on how rare or frequent those moments are
At times, the exam felt impossible, but Femi kept trying until the end.
phrase: 'at times' at start of sentence
Mizuki still misses her hometown, and at times she thinks about moving back.
The old car makes a strange noise at times, but it still runs well.
At times, Sofie wishes she had chosen a quieter place to live.
- sometimes
more common and neutral in register
- occasionally
more formal; implies less frequent occurrence
- from time to time
slightly more formal; same meaning
- always
opposite in terms of frequency
用法筆記
Fixed phrase. Unlike sense 33 (which emphasises low frequency — 'sometimes but not often'), this sense simply notes that something occurs during certain moments without commenting on how rare those moments are.
常見錯誤
39. a formal expression placed at the start of a clause to emphasise that something
a formal expression placed at the start of a clause to emphasise that something did not happen at any moment, meaning 'not ever'
At no time did Matthew feel unsafe during the hiking trip.
inversion: 'at no time' + auxiliary + subject
The pilot assured us that at no time was the plane in real danger.
At no time did anyone ask the children if they wanted to move schools.
The restaurant manager insisted that at no time had they served spoiled food.
- never
shorter and less formal; no inversion required
- not once
similar emphasis; can also trigger inversion
- under no circumstances
stronger and more formal
- always
opposite in meaning
用法筆記
This formal expression triggers subject-auxiliary inversion when placed at the beginning of a clause: 'At no time did X…' (not 'At no time X did…'). Also common in formal written English.
常見錯誤
40. at any moment or point; whenever something happens or is done
at any moment or point; whenever something happens or is done
You can call me at any time if you need help with your homework.
phrase: 'at any time'
The baby could wake up at any time, so Salma stays close to the room.
At any time during the flight, passengers may ask the crew for water.
Henry told his guests they could leave at any time if they felt tired.
- whenever
more conversational; can replace 'at any time' in most contexts
- at any moment
emphasises immediacy or unpredictability
用法筆記
Often used in offers, permissions, and predictions about when something might occur. In informal speech, 'any time' may be written as 'anytime' (one word) as an adverb.
41. on many occasions; repeatedly over a period
on many occasions; repeatedly over a period
Lien has visited this museum many times and still finds new things on each trip.
present perfect + 'many times'
I have told you many times that the gate must be locked before dark.
Owen checked his phone many times, hoping for a message from the hospital.
Mateo reminded his brother many times to bring the camping gear.
- often
adverb; suggests a regular frequency rather than counting occasions
- repeatedly
more formal; emphasises that the action happened over and over
- time and again
idiomatic; more emphatic
常見錯誤
42. an era marked by distinctive social features, cultural practices, or notable hap
an era marked by distinctive social features, cultural practices, or notable happenings that define it
Victorian times were known for strict social rules and rapid industrial growth.
collocation: '[adjective] times' for historical eras
In ancient times, people told stories around the fire to pass on their history.
The museum exhibit shows how children lived during wartime in the 1940s.
Yumi read a novel set in the time of the samurai in old Japan.
These hard times forced many families to leave their farms and move to cities.
用法筆記
Often used with an adjective or noun modifier that names the era ('Roman times', 'modern times', 'boom times'). Unlike sense 43 (which refers generally to 'the past'), this sense describes a named or characterised historical period.
43. a period or moment in history that is earlier than the present, especially one t
a period or moment in history that is earlier than the present, especially one that people refer to when comparing how things used to be with how they are now.
In times past, people travelled by horse-drawn carriage rather than by car.
collocation: in times past
The old photographs reminded Talia of a time when life moved much more slowly.
Yan could remember a time when there were no smartphones and everyone wrote letters.
Cyrus knew the village was once a busy trading centre back in earlier times.
- future
the period that has not yet happened
文法句型
time + when-clause
in + [determiner] + times
用法筆記
Often introduces a contrast between past and present situations. Common in phrases like 'there was a time when' or 'in times past'.
常見錯誤
44. describing someone whose beliefs, artistic style, or habits are so original that
describing someone whose beliefs, artistic style, or habits are so original that most people in that era do not accept them, and appreciation or understanding arrives only after that period has ended.
The painter was ahead of her time — her abstract works shocked the 1920s art world.
collocation: ahead of [possessive] time
Élise's ideas on clean energy were before her time — nobody took them seriously for decades.
alternative: before [possessive] time
The composer was far ahead of his time and only became famous after his death.
That fashion style was ahead of its time and only became popular twenty years later.
- visionary
adjective describing a person who sees the future clearly
- pioneering
focuses on being the first to do something new
- forward-thinking
more neutral, less dramatic than 'ahead of one's time'
- old-fashioned
stuck in past ways, opposite of being ahead of the era
文法句型
ahead of + possessive + time
before + possessive + time
用法筆記
Almost always used in the fixed phrase 'ahead of (someone's) time' or 'before (someone's) time'. The subject is typically a person or their work (art, music, inventions).
常見錯誤
45. used to say that an event, object, or cultural reference comes from a date earli
used to say that an event, object, or cultural reference comes from a date earlier than someone's own birth or earlier than the period when they had started paying attention to the world around them.
The Beatles were huge, but that was before Amani's time, so she never saw them.
structure: before [possessive] time
That TV show ended before Esteban was born — it is completely before his time.
The 1985 earthquake happened before Yasmin's time, though her parents still talk about it.
Technicolor films from the 1950s are beautiful, but they were made before my time.
- predating someone
more formal, used in academic contexts
- older than someone
simpler, less idiomatic
- during one's lifetime
happening while someone is alive
文法句型
before + possessive + time
用法筆記
Common in informal conversation when discussing cultural references, historical events, or older products. Distinguish from sense 44 (AHEAD OF ERA): this sense means 'too early for someone on a personal timeline', not 'too advanced for the era'.
常見錯誤
46. referring to an earlier stretch of years during which a specific set of conditio
referring to an earlier stretch of years during which a specific set of conditions or behaviours were true, with the implication that those conditions have since changed.
There was a time when children played outside all day instead of looking at screens.
pattern: there was a time when...
At one time, this street was full of small family-run shops and bakeries.
Putri remembered a time when her grandmother made fresh bread every single morning.
There was a time when people thought the Sun moved around the Earth.
- once
adverb, more compact, less descriptive
- formerly
more formal, used in written contexts
- previously
focuses on order in time, not necessarily with nostalgia
文法句型
there was a time when...
at one time...
time when...
用法筆記
Typically opens with 'there was a time when' or 'at one time', followed by a clause describing a past situation. The speaker implies the situation has since changed.
常見錯誤
47. the measured number of minutes, seconds, or hours that a person or team takes to
the measured number of minutes, seconds, or hours that a person or team takes to finish a race, a swim, a run, or another timed sporting event.
Iris's time in the 100-metre race was 11.5 seconds, a new personal best.
collocation: time in [event]
The runner finished the marathon with a time of 3 hours and 2 minutes.
Cyrus improved his time for the 5-kilometre run by nearly a full minute.
Joshua's swimming coach recorded his best time with a digital stopwatch.
Selim was happy because his time in the cycling race was faster than last year.
- duration
more general, not limited to sports
- finish time
specifically the moment of finishing
- record
only if the time is notable enough to be kept
文法句型
[possessive] + time + in/for + [event]
用法筆記
Often used with possessive determiners (his time, her time) and prepositions like 'in', 'for', or 'of'. 'Personal best time' is a very common collocation.
常見錯誤
48. the pattern of evenly spaced pulses within a musical composition — specifically,
the pattern of evenly spaced pulses within a musical composition — specifically, how many pulses occur in each bar and how quickly those bars follow one another.
The conductor asked the orchestra to keep a steady time of four beats per bar.
collocation: keep time / beats per bar
Élise struggled to clap in time with the drumbeat during her first music class.
pattern: in time with [something]
This piece of music is written in three-four time, which gives it a waltz-like feel.
Yan tapped his foot to keep time while practising the piano at home.
The drummer set a fast time that made the whole band play with more energy.
文法句型
in + [number] + time
keep time
in time with
用法筆記
In music, 'time' can refer to either the meter (number of beats per bar, e.g. 4/4 time) or the tempo (speed). 'Keep time' means to maintain the correct rhythm. 'In time' means synchronised with the beat.
常見錯誤
49. The period that a convicted criminal is ordered to stay in prison as punishment
The period that a convicted criminal is ordered to stay in prison as punishment for an offence. Frequently used with the verb 'do' as in 'do time'.
Daichi did time for a robbery he committed when he was nineteen.
do time for [crime]
Nia had never expected to serve time in a women's prison.
serve time in [institution]
The judge sentenced him to ten years, the longest time the district had ever given.
The former prisoner admitted he had done time for a crime he committed in his youth.
文法句型
do time
用法筆記
Frequently used with the verb 'do': 'do time' is an informal fixed expression meaning to serve a prison sentence. The definite article is usually omitted in this construction ('do time', not 'do the time').
常見錯誤
50. The legally fixed moment late in the evening when a pub or bar must stop serving
The legally fixed moment late in the evening when a pub or bar must stop serving alcohol and ask customers to leave.
The landlord rang a bell and shouted, "Time, ladies and gentlemen, please!"
fixed phrase: 'Time, please!' at closing
Amelia and her friends finished their pints before time was called at the White Horse.
In many British villages time is still called at eleven o'clock sharp.
The pub landlord gave them a five-minute warning before time.
- closing time
more general term for when any shop or business closes; 'time' in this sense is specific to pubs and bars
用法筆記
Common in fixed expressions: 'time, please!' (the traditional call from a pub landlord), 'time is called' (closing is announced), and 'before time' (before closing). Almost exclusively British.
time — adjective
- timepositive
- timercomparative
- timestsuperlative
1. describing a noun that involves or relates to the measurement, passing, or organ
describing a noun that involves or relates to the measurement, passing, or organization of time
The exam had a strict time limit of just thirty minutes.
collocation: time limit
When Hyun flew from Seoul to London, he crossed six different time zones.
collocation: time zone
Talia's class buried a time capsule under the old oak tree.
Aarav improved his time management skills and finished projects faster.
Is time travel really possible, or will it remain a fantasy?
- temporal
formal synonym, used in academic or scientific writing (C1 level)
- chronological
more specific — relates to the order of events over time
文法句型
time + noun
用法筆記
Always comes directly before a noun. The word 'time' here is an attributive noun — a noun used like an adjective to describe another noun. Common pairings include 'time limit', 'time zone', 'time frame', 'time capsule', and 'time management'. Not used after a linking verb (❌ 'This limit is time').
常見錯誤
time — suffix
1. added to a noun to form a compound word that refers to a specific period of the
added to a noun to form a compound word that refers to a specific period of the day, the year, or a regular event — for example, daytime (when it is light), lunchtime (when people eat lunch), or summertime (the warmest months).
During the daytime, Mira works from home and answers emails.
collocation: during the daytime
Putri always takes a short nap around lunchtime when she feels tired.
collocation: around lunchtime
Is the park open at night-time during the colder months of the year?
The best thing about summertime is swimming in the warm lake with friends.
Before bedtime, the children read a short story with their mother.
文法句型
[noun] + -time (daytime)
[event noun] + -time (lunchtime)
[season noun] + -time (summertime)
用法筆記
Commonly combines with nouns for meals (lunchtime, dinnertime), daily routines (bedtime), seasons (summertime, wintertime), and parts of the day (daytime, night-time). Some compounds are written with a hyphen (night-time) and others as a single word (daytime, bedtime). Learners should check each compound individually, as the pattern is not fully predictable.