Entry 1
About time
Meaning 1. Almost time. 2. High time.
Usage Both meanings widely used.
Example
- 1. Hurry up, it’s about time for the game to start. 2. These running shoes are worn through. It’s about time I got a new pair.
Pronunciation
Idioms · 8 entries
Patience
What does "Patience" mean?
1. Almost time. 2. High time.
About time
1. and 2., both British.
Bite your tongue
Britain. Early (pre 1000AD) English, in the form of hold or keep one’s tongue.
Cross that bridge when you come to it
Don’t count your chickens before they hatch
Britain, 16th century proverb.
Haste makes waste
Britain, 16th century proverb.
Hold your horses
USA, 19th century.
Practice makes perfect
Britain, 18th century proverb.
Sit tight
Britain, 18th century. Probably an allusion to birds sitting quiet and still when threatened by a predator.
Entry 2
Bite your tongue
Meaning Avoid speaking.
Usage Worldwide.
Example
- I knew his wife wasn't faithful but I didn't like to say - I thought it best to bite my tongue.
Pronunciation
Entry 3
Cross that bridge when you come to it
Meaning Deal with a problem if and when it becomes necessary, not before.
Usage Worldwide.
Example
- My pension might not be enough to live on when I'm retired, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.
Pronunciation
Entry 4
Don't count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning Don't count on receiving some benefit until you actually have it.
Usage Worldwide.
Example
- I know you felt good about that exam, but you haven't passed until you get the result - don't count your chickens.
Pronunciation
Entry 5
Haste makes waste
Meaning Doing things in a rush makes for a poor result.
Usage Mostly Britain.
Example
- I should have known I would trip if I ran with that tray of drinks - haste makes waste.
Entry 6
Hold your horses
Meaning Be patient.
Usage Worldwide.
Example
- I know you want to get off home but hold your horses, there's another ten minutes before the school bell is due.
Pronunciation
Entry 7
Practice makes perfect
Meaning Diligent practice leads to expertise.
Usage Worldwide.
Example
- 10,000 hours needed to make a top class pianist. Keep going - practice makes perfect.
Pronunciation
Entry 8
Sit tight
Meaning Wait and take do nothing until the time is right for action.
Usage Worldwide.
Example
- I know you hoped to be promoted by now. Don't worry though. It will happen; just sit tight, do your job well and wait.
Pronunciation