“In time”, “on time”: difference
On time
We use on time to say that something happened ‘exactly at the planned time’. We use it when speaking about timetables and arrangements. On time suggests that something or someone is neither late nor early.
- I want to start the meeting on time so please don’t be late.
- The films at this cinema never start on time – they always start late because of all the advertisements.
In time
If we say we arrived in time, we’re saying that we got there a little early – that there was time to spare.
We often use the structure in time to do something:
- We arrived in time to get some drinks before the show started.
- You need to get to the station in time to buy a ticket and find the right platform for your train.
We also say just in time:
- The man was seriously injured in the crash. I think the ambulance got to him just in time. (= In time to save him.)
- Come in, Lily! You’re just in time for a cup of tea and some biscuits. (= I’m just preparing tea and biscuits.)
Think you’ve got it? Great – you’re just in time for a short quiz:
JULIAN GALLEGO - October 21, 2014, 8:08 pm
I liked so much the explanations about On Time and In time. Thank you very much.
Tethh Chandara - November 8, 2014, 12:09 pm
I like your explanation but I still have confused about ” In time”
I think it should be used for the death line.
example:
I have to finish my work in time.
I need to submit my assignment in time.
robins singh - October 31, 2014, 12:20 pm
wow …..what a explanation thanks admin
sumantho Karmakar - November 13, 2014, 6:56 am
very helpful information.
Bashir - November 13, 2014, 10:39 pm
Thanks mr. Stuart.i find it very helpful.
Angel - November 26, 2014, 5:36 pm
Some other uses for the “in time” expression (feel free to correct me if i’m wrong):
My dear son, in time you will become a famous man
(over the years)
They clap their hands in time with the music
(syncronized)
Anyway, very good explanation
kash - December 17, 2014, 9:00 pm
Wow, this explanation has been given in simple words but still is meaningful.
Thank you , BTW
Dwarak_AL - July 20, 2015, 7:28 pm
Thank you for giving such simple examples.
Sabrina - May 2, 2017, 10:06 am
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Xandher Vhelez - June 7, 2017, 3:19 pm
Thanks a bundle for your explanation, It’s clear for me. I was confused with topic. It was very dope!
Anonymous - November 17, 2020, 7:05 pm
I appreciate your help
Johnson - May 15, 2020, 11:18 am
Thank you for this useful
material.
Anonymous - December 9, 2020, 9:08 am
Thank you for your explanation with simple clear examples. very much useful.
Anonymous - February 1, 2021, 5:09 pm
Very helpful explantion