A small effort made at the right time might save a calamity later on.
Fixing that frayed rope was a real stitch in time. It would probably have snapped when the wind got up later if we hadn’t.
The United Kingdom. A very old proverb.
In use worldwide, but less commonly than before and mainly by the older generation.
1. Almost time. 2. High time.
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.
1. and 2., both British.
Both meanings widely used.
In a great hurry to complete something before a set deadline.
Sorry, no pub lunch for me today, I’m up against the clock. This report’s got to be done by 6pm or I’m dead.
The United Kingdom, 20th century. The allusion being that someone is in a race against the clock.
The period of time just before a project has to be completed.
The exam is tomorrow and I need to pass – it’s crunch time for me.
Sir Winston Churchill coined and often used the expression ‘it comes to the crunch’ and this is the source of the ‘crunch time’ variant.
The adjustment of clocks to provide longer evening daylight.
I can never work out if Daylight Saving Time gives me an hour more in bed or an hour less.
Britain, early 20th century.
Mostly Britain but has also been taken up by other countries that adjust the clocks seasonally.
Working hours that extend overnight.
I’m on shift-work. One week of days and then one on the graveyard shift.
USA, late 19th century.
In an overwhelming situation, causing you to act rashly.
When the burglars broke in I just lashed out. I didn’t think – it was just a heat of the moment reaction.
Allow a disagreement or argument to be put in the past.
I never thought I’d be saying this after you slept with my wife, but that was thirty years ago, let’s let bygones be bygones.
Britain, 16th century proverb
A short space of time.
I know we need to leave soon, but I can get ready really quickly. I’ll be with you in a New York minute.
USA, 20th century.
Mostly USA.
Time spent with a child, spouse or friend in an uninterrupted and attentive way.
I’ve been working 12 hours a day this week and haven’t been home once for the toddler’s bedtime. This weekend I’m going to give them some quality time and take them to the zoo
USA, 20th century.
Jokey term for the early morning.
I know we have to get the early flight but isn’t 2am too soon to be getting up? It isn’t even sparrow fart yet.
Britain, 19th century. Originally an example of rural slang.
Mostly Britain.
Very early in the morning.
We were out clubbing until three and then went on to Jack’s for a drink. We didn’t get home until stupid-o’clock.
Britain, late 20th century.
Mainly Britain, and mainly amongst young adults.
Said when trying something for the third time.
Two divorces and now I’m engaged again. Let’s hope it’s third time lucky.
Britain, 19th century.
The third try is often successful.
Have you noticed that, in TV dramas, when the police try a lock with a set of keys it’s always the third that works. They must think third times a charm.
Originated in Ireland in the 1830s and was later adopted in American speech.
Worldwide, but more common in the USA than elsewhere.
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