Appointment Idioms

Beat the Clock:
- Meaning: To finish a task or appointment just before the deadline.
  - Sample sentence: We had to beat the clock to complete the presentation before the client meeting.
Cutting it Fine:
- Meaning: Waiting until the last moment to do something, often risking being late.
  - Sample sentence: I’m always cutting it fine when catching the train; I need to leave earlier.
Hit the Ground Running:
- Meaning: To start a task or appointment with great energy and enthusiasm.
  - Sample sentence: We need to hit the ground running in the morning to meet the project deadline.
In the Nick of Time:
- Meaning: Just in time, at the last possible moment.
  - Sample sentence: The courier arrived in the nick of time with the important documents.
Jump Through Hoops:
- Meaning: To go through a lot of difficult or time-consuming steps to accomplish something.
  - Sample sentence: We had to jump through hoops to secure a last-minute appointment with the specialist.
Last-minute Decision:
- Meaning: A decision made at the final moment before it is necessary.
  - Sample sentence: The last-minute decision to reschedule the meeting caused some confusion.
Run Out of Time:
- Meaning: To have no time left to complete a task or appointment.
  - Sample sentence: I’m afraid we’ll run out of time if we don’t speed up the discussion during the conference call.
Time Flies:
- Meaning: The perception that time passes quickly, especially during an engaging or enjoyable activity.
  - Sample sentence: During our conversation, time flies; I didn’t realize it’s already been two hours.
Up Against the Clock:
- Meaning: Facing a deadline or running out of time to complete a task.
  - Sample sentence: We’re up against the clock to finalize the proposal before the end of the day.
Wait in the Wings:
- Meaning: To be ready and prepared to take action or assume a role when the time is right.
  - Sample sentence: The understudy is waiting in the wings in case the lead actor cannot make it to the performance.