Time In: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
November 16, 2023

The "time in" idiom means to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption. It is often used in sports, games, or work situations where a pause or stoppage has occurred.

In short:

  • It means to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption.

What Does "Time In" Mean?

The idiom "time in" indicates that an activity, such as a sport, game, or work, is resuming or continuing after a pause or interruption. It is often said by a referee, umpire, coach, teacher, or supervisor who has the authority to start or stop the activity. The phrase can also be used by the participants or observers of the action to signal their readiness or agreement to resume or continue.

Where Does "Time In" Come From?

The origin and history of the idiom "time in" is unclear, but it likely came from using a stopwatch or clock to measure the duration of an activity, such as a sport, game, or work. The term "time" refers to the amount of time that has elapsed or remains for the activity, while the words "in" and "out" indicate whether the training is ongoing or paused. Furthermore, it is common in most workplaces where workers use a time clock or card to record their work hours.

10 Examples of "Time In" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

  • How's it going? Let's time in our meeting at 2 PM.
  • Please remember to time in when you arrive at work.
  • Oh, snap. I need to time in for my shift before I can start.
  • Don't forget to time in on the project tracking system.
  • It's essential to time in for attendance records.
  • Time in your breaks so we can monitor productivity.
  • Students should time in for their online classes promptly.
  • The athletes need to time in at the starting line for the race.
  • Students should time in for the exam at the designated location.
  • Pro tip: Time in your hours accurately for payroll purposes.

Examples of "Time In" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has appeared in various forms of pop culture:

  • In The Karate Kid (1984), the protagonist, Daniel LaRusso, learns karate from his mentor, Mr. Miyagi. In one scene, Daniel spars with Mr. Miyagi's friend Sato, a karate master. Sato says, "Time in," before attacking Daniel with punches and kicks.
  • In the song Time In A Bottle (1972) by Jim Croce, the singer expresses his wish to save time and spend it with his loved one. He sings: "If I could save time in a bottle / The first thing that I'd like to do / Is to save every day till eternity passes away / Just to spend them with you."

Other Ways to Say "Time In"

Here are some synonyms for the idiom "time in":

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Time In"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

  • What does "time in" mean?

The "time in" idiom means to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption. It is often used in sports, games, or work situations where a pause or stoppage has occurred.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "time in"?

The origin and history of the idiom "time in" is unclear, but it likely came from using a stopwatch or clock to measure the duration of an activity, such as a sport, game, or work.

  • What is the difference between "time in" and "time out"?

"Time in" and "time out" are opposite expressions. "Time in" means to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption, while "time out" means to stop or suspend an activity temporarily.

  • Is "time in" a formal or informal expression?

"Time in" is an informal expression mainly used in spoken language. It is not very common or appropriate to use it in formal or written language.

  • Can "time in" be used as a noun?

"Time in" can be used as a noun to refer to the period of time when an activity is ongoing or resumed. For example, "The time in for the game was 45 minutes."

"Time in" can be used as an adjective to describe something that is happening or relevant during the time when an activity is ongoing or resumed. For example, "The time-in score was 2-1."

  • Can "time in" be used as a verb?

"Time in" can be used as a verb to mean to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption. For example, "He timed in at 9:00 am and started working."

  • What are some antonyms for "time in"?

Some antonyms for time in are "time out," "stop," "break," and "halt."

  • How do you use "time in" in a question?

You can use "time in" in a question to ask if someone is ready or willing to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption. For example, "Do you want to time in now or later?"

  • How do you use "time in" in a negative sentence?

You can use "time in" in a negative sentence to express that someone is not ready or willing to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption. For example, "He doesn't want to time in yet. He needs more rest."

Final Thoughts About "Time In"

The idiom "time in" is a valuable and common expression that means to resume or continue an activity after a break or interruption. It is often used in sports, games, or work situations where a pause or stoppage has occurred.

Key points about the phrase:

  • It likely came from using a stopwatch or clock to measure the duration of an activity.
  • It can have different meanings depending on the context and tone of the speaker.
  • It can be used as a command, request, statement, question, noun, adjective, verb, etc.
  • It has synonyms, antonyms, and related expressions with similar meanings.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2024 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier