Have you ever felt the pressure of a ticking clock during an important task? Whether rushing to submit a project or catching the last train, the phrase “time is of the essence” perfectly captures that sense of urgency. In this post, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, and real-life examples of this idiom so you can use it confidently.
Meaning of "Time is of the Essence"
“Time is of the essence” is an idiom used to stress that completing something quickly is very important.
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Primary meaning: Deadlines are crucial, and any delay could cause serious problems.
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Legal meaning: In contracts, it indicates that timely performance is mandatory and failing to act on time could lead to breach of contract.
In short: It’s a way of saying, “Act fast—there’s no time to waste.”
Origin of "Time is of the Essence"
This idiom dates back to legal English in the 16th and 17th centuries. Lawyers and judges used it in contracts to emphasize that deadlines were not flexible. Over time, the phrase moved from legal documents to everyday speech, becoming a popular way to highlight urgency.
Some historians note that early versions appeared in formal writings like letters and agreements, where delaying action could have serious financial or legal consequences. While the precise first use is hard to pinpoint, the connection between time and importance has been clear for centuries.
Examples in Sentences
Here are several ways to use “time is of the essence”:
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Formal: “The contract states that time is of the essence, so the builders must finish the project by June 30.”
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Business: “We need to launch this marketing campaign today—time is of the essence.”
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Casual: “Come on, we’re late for the movie! Time is of the essence!”
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Academic: “Time is of the essence when preparing for exams; don’t leave studying until the last minute.”
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Emergency: “In medical emergencies, time is of the essence—every second counts.”
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Travel: “We only have a few hours before the train leaves, so time is of the essence.”
Similar Idioms or Phrases
If you like “time is of the essence”, here are some other phrases with a similar meaning:
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Every second counts – Emphasizes that no time should be wasted.
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Against the clock – Doing something with a strict time limit.
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Race against time – Trying to finish something before a deadline or disaster.
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Time waits for no one – A reminder that time moves forward, whether you act or not.
I often find myself using “time is of the essence” when coordinating with friends or family. It feels more expressive than just saying “hurry up,” and it gets people to take deadlines seriously without sounding harsh.
Whether you’re signing contracts or just reminding a friend to get ready, remembering that time is of the essence can help you communicate urgency clearly. Do you use this idiom in your everyday conversations? Share your examples in the comments!