The Village Idiom

it's about time

The idiom "it's about time" is used to express that something should have happened sooner or that someone is overdue for a certain action or event.

Time & pace · Filed under I

In a sentence

  • It's about time you finished your homework.
  • It's about time we went on vacation.
  • It's about time he apologized for his behavior.

Where it comes from and how it is used

"About time" is another widely used idiom that is closely related to "it's about time." It is often used to express the sentiment that something should have happened sooner or that the delay in its occurrence is frustrating or surprising. For example, if someone says "it's about time you got here," they are expressing the idea that the person's arrival was long-awaited or expected earlier.

Similarly, the phrase "high time" is often used interchangeably with "about time." It conveys a sense of urgency or necessity for something to happen. For instance, if someone says "it's high time we started working on this project," they are emphasizing the importance and timeliness of beginning the project immediately. The phrase suggests that there has been a significant delay and that action should be taken promptly.

The idiom "about time" can be used to describe various situations and emotions. It can express relief, frustration, or excitement, depending on the context in which it is used. Its versatility allows it to be applied in both personal and professional settings, making it a valuable expression for native English speakers to communicate their feelings and expectations.

As an experienced Editor for HubSpot, I would ensure that articles featuring idioms like "it's about time," "about time," "high time," and "about to" adhere to these rules and guidelines to ensure clarity, coherence, and effectiveness:

1. Follow AP style consistently and eliminate any unnecessary introductory or summary paragraphs in the article.

2. Remove transitional phrases to make the article more concise and get straight to the point.

3. Keep paragraphs short and limit them to 2-3 sentences for better readability.

4. Use short sentences and simple words and phrasing to communicate ideas clearly to readers.

5. Write in a conversational style with a friendly and informal tone to engage the audience.

6. Use varied language to avoid repetition and enhance the article's impact.

7. Change the structure of the article to improve its flow and readability.

8. Aim the article at a well-informed audience to provide valuable and relevant information.

9. Be concise and avoid excessive wordiness to maintain the reader's attention.

10. Fix any grammar, phrasing, or tonal mistakes to ensure the article's overall quality.

11. Use active voice to give the article a more dynamic and engaging tone.

By following these guidelines, any article about idioms related to "it's about time" can be improved to enhance clarity, coherence, and readability.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.