in time

/ɪn ˈtaɪm/
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Early enough for a particular purpose.

Examples

  • I reached the door just in time to catch him.
  • We got to the station in time for the train.
  • They did not finish in time for the deadline.
  • Will the parcel arrive in time for her birthday?
  • Leave now and you should be in time for dinner.

Similar words

before it is too late
early enough

Meanings

Before it is too late

time
neutral
Early enough to do something or take part in an event, often with little time to spare.

Examples

  • We got to the station in time for the train.
  • Will the parcel arrive in time for her birthday?
  • I reached the door just in time to catch him.
  • They did not finish in time for the deadline.
  • Leave now and you should be in time for dinner.

Similar words

Etymology

In places an action within the time available before an event or deadline.

FAQ

What does in time mean?

It means early enough for a particular event or purpose.

When is in time used?

It is used when someone arrives or finishes before the opportunity passes.

How is in time different from on time?

In time means early enough, perhaps just barely. On time means at the scheduled time.

How is in time used in a sentence?

It often appears before for or to, as in “in time for the train” or “in time to catch it”.

Is in time formal?

It is neutral and common in everyday speech.

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