is on borrowed time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is on borrowed time" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone or something is in a precarious situation and may not last much longer. Example: "The old bridge is on borrowed time and needs to be replaced before it collapses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

KANSAS STATE Kansas State Coach Tom Asbury is on borrowed time as his Wildcats close out one of their worst seasons.

The New York Times - Sports

There are those, however, who believe that the traditional radio industry is on borrowed time.

The Guardian

"I feel fortunate, but every coach in every situation is on borrowed time," Saunders said.

The New York Times - Sports

The "last chance" notion is partly based on the knowledge that Abbas is on borrowed time politically.

The Guardian

A skatepark built in an abandoned building on the outskirts of Christiania, the infamous free-town, is on borrowed time.

The Guardian

Occasionally he feels as if he is on borrowed time here -- he is hot today but could be forgotten tomorrow.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Although it reached tropical storm status, the National Hurricane Center noted that Patty was "on borrowed time", as the storm was predicted to eventually succumb to unfavorable conditions.

Wikipedia

Brazenhead was on borrowed time, and no one knew how much".

The Guardian - Books

Yes, their performance against the Italians was very poor indeed, to the extent that one or two players may be on borrowed time at Test level.

Independent

"We've been on borrowed time.

The New York Times

We are on borrowed time.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is on borrowed time" to describe situations or entities that are likely to cease or expire soon. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is at risk of ending.

Common error

Avoid using "is on borrowed time" in highly formal or technical writing, as it is an idiomatic expression. Opt for more precise and literal language to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is on borrowed time" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically used as a predicate to describe a subject that is in a precarious or temporary state. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sports

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is on borrowed time" is a common idiomatic expression used to describe something in a precarious or temporary state. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the phrase. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Sports contexts, and while its register is generally neutral, it should be used cautiously in highly formal settings. Alternative phrases, such as "is running out of time", can be used to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Use this phrase to effectively communicate that something's viability is threatened and likely to end soon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is living on borrowed time

Emphasizes the act of 'living' in a precarious state.

is running out of time

Focuses on the limitation of time remaining.

is nearing its end

Highlights the approaching conclusion or termination.

is in its twilight years

Implies the final stage or period of existence.

is facing imminent demise

Stresses the impending end with a sense of urgency.

is skating on thin ice

Suggests a risky situation where failure is likely.

is hanging by a thread

Conveys a fragile state with minimal support.

is living on the edge

Implies a risky or precarious lifestyle.

is approaching its expiration date

Highlights the limited validity or usability remaining.

is on its last legs

Indicates a state of near collapse or failure.

FAQs

How can I use "is on borrowed time" in a sentence?

Use "is on borrowed time" to indicate that something is likely to end or disappear soon. For example, "The old tradition "is on borrowed time" in the face of modernization."

What does it mean when someone says something "is on borrowed time"?

It means that the thing in question is likely to end or cease functioning soon; its existence is temporary and precarious.

What are some alternatives to saying something "is on borrowed time"?

You can use alternatives like "is running out of time", "is nearing its end", or "is in its twilight years" depending on the specific context.

Is "is on borrowed time" a formal or informal expression?

It is generally considered an informal expression, suitable for everyday conversation and writing but less appropriate for highly formal or technical contexts.