Time Idioms

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behind the times

Meaning: Outdated or old-fashioned; not keeping up with modern ideas, trends, or technology.

Example: The company's policies are behind the times, ignoring modern workplace flexibility. Read more ➺


turn back the hands of time

Meaning: To return to an earlier period or situation in life, history, or circumstances.

Example: She wished she could turn back the hands of time and avoid the mistake that changed her life. Read more ➺


so long

Meaning: A friendly or casual way to say goodbye, often suggesting separation for some time.

Example: He packed his bag, shook hands with his colleagues, and said so long as he left the office for the last time. Read more ➺


on the fly

Meaning: Done while something is happening, in real time, without stopping the process.

Example: The engineer fixed the bug on the fly during the live demo. Read more ➺


halcyon days

Meaning: A past period remembered as peaceful, happy, and prosperous.

Example: He often described his childhood as the halcyon days, when life felt simple and secure. Read more ➺


watershed moment

Meaning: A decisive turning point that causes a major and lasting change in events, thinking, or direction.

Example: The signing of the peace agreement was a watershed moment that reshaped relations between the two countries. Read more ➺


groundhog day

Meaning: A situation in which the same events or experiences repeat again and again, with little or no progress.

Example: Every week at the office felt like groundhog day, with the same meetings and arguments repeating endlessly. Read more ➺


every now and then

Meaning: Occasionally; sometimes, but not regularly.

Example: every now and then, I like to step away from work and take a quiet walk to reset my mind. Read more ➺


donkey’s years

Meaning: A very long time; ages.

Example: They've lived in that town for donkey's years, and everyone knows them. Read more ➺


ever since

Meaning: From a past time until now.

Example: She moved to the city in 2018, and ever since she has worked in digital marketing. Read more ➺


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