taɪm ɪz əv ði ˈɛsəns
Time
formal
intermediate
- Literally:
- time constitutes the fundamental or essential element
What does "time is of the essence" mean?
it is extremely important to act quickly
Examples
- Time is of the essence — we need to evacuate the building immediately.
- In emergency medicine, time is of the essence when treating a stroke.
- The lawyer reminded both parties that time was of the essence in closing the deal.
Origin
Originally a legal phrase from contract law, dating to the 19th century.
How to use it
A formal or emphatic expression used to stress urgency. Retains its legal usage in contracts.
Similar expressions
every second counts
there's no time to waste
Opposites
there's no rush
take your time
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 "time is of the essence" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.