- (point in time at which something is utterly due): about time
- (very enjoyable or exciting period of time): high old time, hoot
The Origins of “High Time”
The origins of this idiom are unclear, but it has been in use for several centuries. Some believe that it comes from nautical terminology, where sailors would refer to high tide as the best time to set sail. Others suggest that it may have originated from hunting terminology, where hunters would wait until late in the day when animals were more active.
Usage Examples
“High time” can be used in a variety of contexts. Here are some examples:
- It’s high time you started studying for your exams.
- It’s high time we left if we want to catch our flight.
- It’s high time they fixed these potholes on our street.
This idiom is often followed by a clause with a verb in the past tense or present perfect tense. It can also be used with modal verbs such as “should” or “ought to”.
Origins and Historical Context of the Idiom “high time”
The idiom “high time” is a commonly used phrase in the English language that expresses urgency or necessity. It has been around for centuries, with its origins dating back to medieval times. The phrase was originally used in reference to astronomical events such as high tide and high noon, which were considered important markers of time.
Over time, the meaning of “high time” evolved to encompass a broader range of situations where something needs to be done urgently or at the right moment. This can include anything from completing a task before a deadline to making an important decision before it’s too late.
In addition to its literal meaning, “high time” also has historical significance. During the Industrial Revolution in England, workers were often required to work long hours in dangerous conditions for very little pay. As a result, there were many protests and strikes demanding better working conditions and higher wages. The phrase “it’s high time” became popular among these workers as a way of expressing their frustration and calling for change.
Today, “high time” continues to be used in everyday conversation as well as in literature and media. Its origins and historical context serve as reminders of how language evolves over time and how idioms can reflect social and cultural changes throughout history.
Usage and Variations of the Idiom “high time”
Variations of the Idiom “High Time”
While the basic meaning of the idiom remains unchanged, there are several variations that can be used depending on the context:
- “It’s high time”: This variation is commonly used to express a sense of urgency or impatience about something that should have happened already.
- “High time someone did something”: This variation implies that it is long overdue for someone to take action on a particular matter.
- “High time for”: This variation suggests that it is an appropriate moment for something specific to happen.
Usage Examples
The following are some examples of how the idiom “high time” can be used in different contexts:
Example 1: It’s high time you started saving money for your retirement.
Example 2: It’s high time we took action against climate change before it’s too late.
Example 3: High time someone stood up against corruption in our government.
Example 4: It’s high time for us to invest in renewable energy sources.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Cultural Insights for the Idiom “high time”
Synonyms for “high time” include phrases such as “about time,” “long overdue,” and “overripe.” These expressions convey similar meanings to “high time” but may vary in intensity or context. For example, saying it’s “about time” implies that something should have happened sooner but doesn’t necessarily carry the same level of urgency as saying it’s “high time.”
Antonyms for “high time” include phrases like “too soon,” which suggests that an action should not be taken yet, or that there is still more preparation needed before taking action. Another antonym could be “too late,” indicating that an opportunity has passed by without being acted upon.
Culturally speaking, the use of this idiom varies across different regions and countries. In some cultures, punctuality is highly valued, making the use of this phrase more common when referring to tardiness or missed deadlines. In other cultures where a more relaxed attitude towards timeliness exists, this phrase may not be used as frequently.
Practical Exercises for the Idiom “high time”
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blank
Complete each sentence below by filling in the blank with the correct form of “high time.”
- I’ve been putting off studying for this exam, but it’s ____________ I start.
- We’ve been waiting for hours, it’s ____________ we left.
- You’ve been working too hard lately, it’s ____________ you took a break.
Exercise 2: Conversation Practice
Practice using “high time” in conversation by role-playing with a partner. Use the following prompts as a guide:
- A: I’m so tired of my job. B: It sounds like it’s ____________ you found a new one.
- A: I can’t believe you haven’t seen that movie yet. B: Yeah, I know. It’s ____________ I watch it soon before everyone spoils it for me.
- A: Have you started packing yet? We leave tomorrow morning! B: No…I guess it’s ____________ I get started now!
Tips: When practicing these exercises, try to think of other situations where “high time” could be used and create your own sentences or conversations based on those scenarios. The more practice you have using idioms like “high time,” the easier they will become to use naturally in your everyday English conversations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Idiom “high time”
When using idioms, it is important to understand their meaning and usage. The idiom “high time” is commonly used to indicate that something should have happened already or that it is overdue. However, there are some common mistakes that people make when using this idiom.
One mistake is using “high time” in a positive context, such as “It’s high time we start planning our vacation.” This usage implies excitement or anticipation, which contradicts the negative connotation of the idiom. It would be more appropriate to say something like “It’s about time we start planning our vacation.”
Another mistake is using “high time” with a future tense verb, such as “It will be high time for us to leave soon.” This usage implies that the action has not yet occurred but will become overdue in the future. It would be more accurate to use a present tense verb and say something like “It’s high time for us to leave now.”
Finally, some people mistakenly use “highly” instead of “high,” saying things like “It’s highly time for me to get a new job.” This usage is incorrect and does not convey the intended meaning of the idiom.
References:
- “high time”, in OneLook Dictionary Search.