English idiom

race against time

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

a desperate hurry to finish before a deadline

Why this phrase?

Time itself is pictured as a rival runner; finishing before it wins is the only way to succeed.

Example

“It was a race against time to save the data before the crash.”

Dictionary details

Component words

time

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

crunch time

the final, high-pressure period before a deadline

in the nick of time

at the latest moment when success is still possible

play for time

to delay deliberately in order to prepare or avoid an immediate outcome

stand the test of time

to remain effective, admired, or valuable over a long period

back against the wall

in a desperate situation with few options left

on the spot

immediately and at the place where something happens

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.

External links

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