around the clock: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘around the clock’ mean?
The idiom "around the clock" means continuously or without stopping, often referring to a task or activity that is done non-stop for 24 hours.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "round the clock" means continuously or without stopping, emphasizing the full 24 hours of a day.
The idiom "keep watch" means to stay vigilant or be on the lookout for potential dangers or threats. It implies being aware and alert to ensure the safety or security of someone or something.
The idiom "in no time" means very quickly or without delay, suggesting that something will be completed or happen in a short period of time.
The idiom "hour of need" refers to a critical moment or a time when one is in desperate need of help or support.
The idiom "hang around" means to stay or linger in a particular place or a situation without any clear purpose or reason. It implies a sense of aimlessness or idle presence.
The idiom "go round in circles" means to keep doing or discussing the same thing without making any progress or reaching a resolution.
The idiom "from time to time" means occasionally or at intervals, not frequently. It implies that something happens occasionally, but not on a regular basis.
The idiom "fall around" means to laugh uncontrollably. It is often used to describe a situation where someone finds something extremely funny and can't stop laughing.
The idiom "every time" is used to indicate that something happens consistently or repeatedly. It can also imply that something always occurs in conjunction with a specific action or event.
"Dog around" means to wander aimlessly, without a specific purpose or direction. It can also refer to procrastinating or wasting time instead of being productive.
Decoding Nonstop Time
Around the clock is an idiom used in English to express continuous or non-stop action or activity. The term is derived from the circular shape of a traditional clock, which has no definite beginning or end. The hands on a clock move continuously around the clockface, symbolizing perpetual movement or continuous action.
This idiom is often associated with activities or events that take place over a 24-hour period. It suggests that something is happening without pausing or taking breaks, in a tireless manner.
The phrase "around the clock" is commonly used in contexts where time is of great importance, such as emergency situations, healthcare, and business operations that require constant attention or monitoring. It conveys a sense of urgency and a commitment to work or service that is uninterrupted.
This idiom is well-known among native English speakers in the United States and has become ingrained in the language to emphasize the continuous nature of an activity or the non-stop dedication of someone.
It is worth noting that the usage of this idiom has extended beyond its literal meaning. It has also come to represent a mindset or attitude of persistence and determination. People may use the idiom to describe their own work ethic or the efforts of others who exhibit unwavering dedication.
Related idioms to "around the clock" include "round the clock," "at all hours," "day in, day out," and "all the while." These idioms share the common theme of expressing continuous or non-stop action or activity. While "round the clock" is a variation of "around the clock," both phrases convey the same meaning of something happening without pause.
The idiom "at all hours" is similar to "around the clock" in that it suggests an activity or event happening continuously without stopping, regardless of the hour of the day. It highlights the idea that there are no set hours or breaks in the action.
The idiom "day in, day out" is another phrase that conveys continuous or non-stop action. It implies that something is happening every day without interruption or break. This idiom emphasizes the consistency and dedication required for a particular activity.
Similarly, the idiom "all the while" carries the same idea of continuous or non-stop action. It suggests that something is happening throughout a particular period without pause. This phrase emphasizes the duration of the activity or event.
These related idioms serve to reinforce the concept of continuous or non-stop action or activity, similar to the idiom "around the clock." While each idiom may have its own variations or nuances, they all convey the same idea of something happening without pause or break.
The idiom "around the clock" has its roots in the invention of mechanical clocks and has come to symbolize continuous action or activity without pause. It is commonly used in various contexts, particularly in situations that require constant attention or where time is of great importance. This idiom reflects a commitment to tireless work or service and has become ingrained in the English language, representing both a literal and figurative concept. While its origins can be traced back to the mechanical clocks, the idiom's usage continues to evolve and adapt in modern times, standing as a testament to the enduring nature of language and culture.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "around the clock" can be used in a sentence:
- During a crisis, doctors and nurses work around the clock to provide necessary medical care.
- As the deadline approached, the team worked around the clock to complete the project on time.
- The convenience store is open around the clock, so you can buy groceries at any time.
The first example shows how the idiom can be used to describe continuous or non-stop work, particularly in healthcare settings. The phrase "around the clock" emphasizes the 24/7 nature of their work.
In the second example, the idiom is used to convey the idea of working tirelessly or consistently. The team is putting in significant effort and working extended hours to meet the deadline.
The third example demonstrates the idiom being used to describe something that is available or operating continuously throughout the day and night. The phrase "around the clock" suggests that the convenience store never closes and is always accessible.
More "Time" idioms
