ɒn ˈbɒroʊd taɪm
Time
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- existing on time that has been borrowed
What does "on borrowed time" mean?
continuing to live or exist beyond the expected or normal time
Examples
- After surviving the heart attack, he felt he was living on borrowed time.
- The old bridge is on borrowed time — it could collapse any day.
- The struggling company has been on borrowed time since losing its biggest client.
Origin
Likely originated in the 19th century, treating extra time alive as a loan that must eventually be repaid.
How to use it
Conveys a sense of precariousness and inevitability.
Similar expressions
living on the edge
on thin ice
nearing the end
Opposites
in the prime of life
thriving
going strong
Related idioms
- in the long run
Over a long period of time
- better late than never
It's better to do something late than not to do it at all
- from time to time
occasionally, not regularly
- in the nick of time
Just in time; at the last possible moment
- run out of time
to have no more time left to do something
- time flies when you're having fun
Enjoyable moments seem to pass quickly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "on borrowed time" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.