clock is ticking

USAGE SUMMARY

"clock is ticking" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as a metaphor to convey a sense of urgency or a looming deadline. Example: "We only have two hours left to finish this project. The clock is ticking, so let's work quickly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Prokhorov's clock is ticking.

The New York Times - Sports

Clock is ticking!

The New York Times

The clock is ticking.

The New York Times

Still, the clock is ticking.

The Economist

The nuclear clock is ticking.

The New York Times

However, the clock is ticking.

Independent

So the clock is ticking.

The New York Times

Now the clock is ticking.

The Guardian - Business

And the clock is ticking.

The New York Times

Meanwhile the clock is ticking.

The Guardian

Yet the clock is ticking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clock is ticking" to add a sense of urgency to your writing, particularly when discussing deadlines, goals, or limited-time opportunities.

Common error

Avoid using "clock is ticking" excessively, as it can lose its impact and sound cliché. Vary your language with synonyms like "time is running out" or "deadline is approaching" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clock is ticking" functions as an idiom, conveying a sense of urgency and impending deadlines. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts, as seen in examples from authoritative sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "clock is ticking" is a widely recognized and accepted idiom used to convey a sense of urgency and impending deadlines. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While effective in creating a feeling of pressure, it's important to avoid overuse and consider more formal alternatives in certain writing situations. Remember to use it strategically to maximize its impact and maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time is running out

Emphasizes the depletion of available time.

time is of the essence

Highlights the critical importance of acting quickly.

deadline is approaching

Directly states the impending nature of a deadline.

pressure is mounting

Focuses on the increasing stress due to limited time.

the sands are running out

A more figurative way to express that time is running out.

time is slipping away

Highlights the sense of losing time gradually.

the window is closing

Indicates a diminishing opportunity.

every second counts

Stresses the value of each moment.

we're on a tight schedule

Indicates a lack of flexibility in timing.

the final hour is upon us

Suggests that the end of the allocated time is very close.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says the "clock is ticking"?

Saying the "clock is ticking" means that time is running out and there is a limited amount of time left to complete a task or achieve a goal. It implies a sense of urgency.

How can I use "clock is ticking" in a sentence?

You can use "clock is ticking" in sentences like, "The "deadline is approaching", the "clock is ticking" to submit your application" or "The negotiations must conclude soon, because the "clock is ticking" on this deal."

What are some alternatives to "clock is ticking"?

Alternatives to "clock is ticking" include "time is running out", "deadline is approaching", and "time is of the essence". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "clock is ticking" in formal writing?

While "clock is ticking" is widely understood, it's generally more appropriate for neutral or informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using more direct phrases like "a deadline is imminent" or "time is of the essence" to maintain a professional tone.