intime

IPA/ɪntˈaɪm/
IPA/ɪntˈaɪm/

intime — idiom

1. early enough so that you are not late, or early enough for something to happen a

1.慣用語B1
釋義

early enough so that you are not late, or early enough for something to happen as planned.

例句

Arjun arrived just in time to catch the last train to Taichung.

just in time + to-infinitive

The ambulance reached the hospital in time for the emergency surgery.

in time + for + noun phrase

同義詞
  • early enough

    more literal and less idiomatic; used in formal or instructional contexts

  • with time to spare

    suggests arriving earlier than needed, not just barely making it

反義詞
  • too late

    the opposite outcome — after the deadline or event has passed

文法句型

in time + for + noun phrase

in time + to-infinitive

just in time

用法筆記

Often strengthened with 'just' (just in time) to emphasise that something barely made the deadline. Compare with 'on time', which means at the scheduled time rather than early enough to avoid being late.

常見錯誤

❌I arrived on time for the concert, but the doors had already closed.
✅I arrived in time for the concert, but the doors had already closed.
💡'on time' means at the scheduled time; 'in time' means with enough time left before something happens.
❌She came just on time to see the sunset.
✅She came just in time to see the sunset.
💡'just in time' is the correct fixed phrase for barely making it.

2. after a period of time passes; as time goes by, something changes or happens.

2.慣用語B2
釋義

after a period of time passes; as time goes by, something changes or happens.

例句

In time, the forest will grow back after the fire.

sentence-initial 'in time' for eventual outcome

Jessica knew that in time her broken ankle would heal completely.

同義詞
  • eventually

    more direct; 'in time' carries a softer, more patient tone

  • sooner or later

    more casual; implies certainty despite uncertainty about when

  • after a while

    less formal; suggests a shorter period than 'in time'

反義詞
  • never

    the opposite — something that does not happen regardless of time passing

文法句型

In time, + clause

clause + in time

用法筆記

Used to talk about a change or result that happens gradually, not suddenly. Often appears at the start of a sentence to set the time frame. Distinguish from Sense 1 (EARLY ENOUGH): Sense 2 talks about something happening eventually, not about catching a deadline.

常見錯誤

❌In time, I will call you back in five minutes.
✅In time, you will learn to appreciate classical music.
💡'in time' meaning 'eventually' refers to long-term change, not a short delay.

3. (of music, dance, or rhythmic movement) performed with the correct speed and rhy

3.慣用語B2
釋義

(of music, dance, or rhythmic movement) performed with the correct speed and rhythm, matching a beat or a partner.

例句

The choir sang perfectly in time under the conductor's direction.

in time for group performance/synchronisation

Mauricio tapped his foot to keep the band playing in time.

同義詞
  • on the beat

    more specific to music; 'in time' can apply to longer rhythmic phrases

  • in rhythm

    more general; 'in time' specifically refers to tempo accuracy

反義詞

文法句型

in time + with + noun

keep + in time

play/sing/dance + in time

用法筆記

Primarily used in music and dance contexts. Can extend to any rhythmic activity (clapping, marching, rowing). The preposition 'with' introduces the reference beat or partner. Frequently used with 'keep': 'keep in time'.