ENENENEN
FR
ES
RU
IT
TR
UKthe clock is ticking (down)
/ðə klˈɒk ɪz tˈɪkɪŋ dˌaʊn/
/ðə klˈɑːk ɪz tˈɪkɪŋ dˌaʊn/the clock is ticking (down)
[SENTENCE]1
used as a warning to remind one that the time that is left for doing something is about to be over
What is the origin of the idiom "the clock is ticking" and when to use it?
The idiom "the clock is ticking" originates from the literal ticking sound produced by mechanical clocks. Mechanical clocks have been used for centuries to measure time, and their ticking sound has become associated with the passage of time itself. This phrase can be heard in discussions about project deadlines, exam preparations, time-limited opportunities, impending events, or any circumstance where prompt action or progress is necessary.
Examples
1. The clock is ticking on the peace talks.
2. The clock is ticking for those who have not yet filled in their tax form.
3. The clock is ticking away.
4. Feaver: An unripe truffle, unlike a tomato, which you could cut from the vine and ripen on your windowsill, once the truffle is out of the ground, the clock is ticking.
more