Example
“The firefighters reached the cabin in the nick of time to stop the flames spreading.”
Dictionary details
Related idioms
Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.
play for time
Neutral · CEFR B2
to delay deliberately in order to prepare or avoid an immediate outcome
stand the test of time
Neutral · CEFR B2
to remain effective, admired, or valuable over a long period
crunch time
Informal · CEFR B2
the final, high-pressure period before a deadline
race against time
Neutral · CEFR B2
a desperate hurry to finish before a deadline
in the fast lane
Neutral · CEFR B2
living or working at an intense pace often associated with excitement and risk
bright and early
Neutral · CEFR A2
at the very start of the morning
Source methodology
Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.