Time

Collocations for discussing time, schedules, and deadlines

Introduction

Time expressions in English are highly collocational. We "spend time" not "use time" (usually), "waste time" not "lose time". These combinations are crucial for scheduling, planning, and discussing how we use our time.

This chapter covers time-related collocations from daily scheduling to long-term planning.

Themes

All Collocations in This Chapter (26)

• spend time To use a period of time doing something
• waste time To use time poorly or on unproductive activities
• save time To reduce the amount of time needed for something
• free time Time when you have no obligations and can do what you want
• take your time To do something without rushing; there is no hurry
• run out of time To have no more time available to do something
• pressed for time Having very little time available; being in a hurry
• time flies Time seems to pass very quickly
• time passes Time moves forward; a period of time goes by
• time drags Time seems to pass very slowly
• in the nick of time Just barely in time; at the last possible moment
• ahead of time Before the expected or scheduled time; in advance
• behind schedule Later than planned; not progressing as fast as expected
• right on time Arriving or happening at exactly the scheduled or expected moment
• from time to time Occasionally; now and then
• time after time Repeatedly; again and again
• at the time At that particular moment in the past being referred to
• in due course At the appropriate time; eventually, when the time is right
• for the time being For now; temporarily, until something changes
• long overdue Something that should have happened much earlier
• time frame A defined period within which something must happen
• tight schedule A very busy timetable with little flexibility or free time
• set a date To decide on a specific date for something to happen
• sharp Exactly at the stated time; punctually
• time limit The maximum amount of time allowed for something
• extended period A long duration of time, longer than usual or expected