Time is of the essence

Posted by ESC on June 15, 2000

In Reply to: Time is of the essence posted by Lewis Armstrong on June 14, 2000

: What is the origin of the subject phrase?

: I know that educators use the phrase.

: Thanks

: Lewis

"TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE - In legal documents a date will be given, after which may be written: 'Time is of the essence.' This is a very old expression, credited by Barlett's 'Quotations' to Mr. Anon. It seems to mean simply that it is essential that the actions provided for in the legal document be completed by the date given." The Morris Dictionary of Word and Phrase Origins by William and Mary Morris (HarperCollins, New York, 1977)