Idioms Related to Time and Routine

Idioms Related to Time and Routine

Time flies, doesn’t it? One minute you are sipping your morning tea, and the next it’s dinner time—and you still haven’t replied to that email from Monday. Whether you’re trying to describe your daily routine, a rare event, or that last-minute scramble before a deadline, idioms are the secret sauce that makes your English sound fluent and expressive. In this post, we’re exploring 15 advanced English idioms related to time and routine—ideal for B2–C1 learners seeking to elevate their language skills.

Each idiom comes with a clear explanation and a natural example sentence, so you will not only understand the meaning—you will actually know how to use it. So if you are ready to speak like a native, manage your time like clockwork, and stop sounding like you are behind the times.

Around the clock

Meaning: all day and all night; continuously without stopping. You can use it for things that are urgent or require constant attention.

• The hospital staff worked around the clock to treat the victims of the accident.

Call it a day

Meaning: to stop working on something for the time being, usually after a good amount of effort. It is often used at the end of a work session or a long task.

• We’ve done enough coding for now—let’s call it a day and continue tomorrow. Idioms Related to Time and Routine

Time flies

Meaning: time passes very quickly, especially when you’re enjoying yourself or busy. It is useful for reflecting on how quickly time passes.

• I can’t believe it’s midnight already—time really flies when you’re having fun!

In the long run

Meaning: over a long period of time; eventually. The idioms is great for talking about routines or habits with long-term benefits.

• Learning English every day might feel slow now, but in the long run, it’ll open so many doors.

Behind the times

Meaning: old-fashioned or not keeping up with modern trends or ideas. It could be useful when discussing outdated routines or lifestyles.

• My uncle still uses a VHS player—he’s completely behind the times!

Once in a blue moon

Meaning: very rarely; almost never. It is a good contrast to regular habits or routines.

• I eat fast food once in a blue moon, usually when I’m travelling. Idioms Related to Time and Routine

From time to time

Meaning: occasionally; not regularly, but now and then. This is a great middle-ground between routine and rarity.

• I paint from time to time when I have a free weekend.

On the dot

Meaning: exactly on time, not early or late. This one is perfect for students learning punctuality in routines.

• The train leaves at 9:00 a.m. on the dot, so don’t be late!

Crack of dawn

Meaning: very early in the morning, just as the sun rises. It is often used when describing daily routines or travel schedules.

• We set off at the crack of dawn to avoid traffic on the motorway.

Like clockwork

Meaning: happening regularly and predictably, with no problems. Excellent for talking about routines or systems.

• The postman arrives at 8 a.m. every day—like clockwork.

A race against time

Meaning: a situation where something must be done quickly before it’s too late. Useful for high-pressure routine situations like exams or projects.

• It was a race against time to finish the essay before the deadline. Idioms Related to Time and Routine

At the eleventh hour

Meaning: at the very last possible moment. You can use it in stories about procrastination or last-minute success.

• He submitted his assignment at the eleventh hour, just before the deadline.

Make time for something

Meaning: to find time to do something important, even if you’re busy.  Ideal for teaching students about healthy routines.

• I always try to make time for meditation in the morning, no matter how hectic the day is.

Behind schedule

Meaning: later than planned; delayed. It can be useful in business, travel, or project contexts.

• The construction is behind schedule due to bad weather.

Cut it fine

Meaning: to leave very little time for something; to be almost late. Highlights risky or poorly timed routines.

• We got to the airport five minutes before boarding—we really cut it fine!

Idioms related to time and routine

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