Common English collocations with the word "time"
spend time
To pass your time doing some activity.- I spend a lot of time studying English.
waste time
Doing something that is not a good use of time.- Stop wasting time playing computer games and get to work!
make time for
To "create" time in a busy schedule.- I need to make time for regular exercise - maybe I can go to the gym before work.
save time
Something that is efficient and gives you extra time- Shopping online saves me time because I don't have to wait in line at the store.
free/spare time
Time in which you have no obligations, and you can do whatever you want.- In my free time, I enjoy reading, painting, and cooking.
have time
Be available to do something.- I'd like to take violin lessons, but I don't have enough time.
kill time / pass the time
Do something to make the time pass faster while you're waiting for something else.- Let's bring some magazines to help pass the time on the train ride.
take your time
You can use as much time as you want, you don't have to go fast.- "I like all of these computers. I'm not sure which one I want to buy yet." "That's OK - take your time."
on time
On schedule, at the right time.- It's important to arrive on time for a job interview.
just in time
At the perfect time, soon before something else happens- Hi, Henry! Have a seat - you got here just in time for dinner.
have a hard/rough time
Something difficult, or a difficult period in life.- I'm having a hard time solving this math problem. Could you help me?
it's about time
An expression that means "Finally!"- It's about time they fixed the air conditioner in my classroom! It's been broken for three years!
pressed for time
In a rush, in a hurry (when you need to do something and you don't have enough time)- Sorry, I can't talk at the moment - I'm a bit pressed for time. Can I call you back later?
run out of time
Have no more time before the limit.- I ran out of time before I finished the test, so I didn't answer the last five questions.
stall for time
Delay.- My son didn't want to go to bed, so he tried to stall for time by asking me to read him another bedtime story.
take time off
Not go to work.- I'm taking some time off in July to go camping with my family.
Quiz: Common English Collocations with TIME
Choose the best collocation for each sentence. Good luck!
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