Phrase guide

borrowed time

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

A period of time whose precise duration is not known but which can be expected to be quite limited, and at the end of which one's situation, benefits, or opportunities will be entirely terminated.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, uncountable

Examples

  • to live on borrowed time

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

A length of time whose duration has traditionally expired, but which continues nonetheless.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: uncountable

Examples

  • Having survived when many others died, she decided to make good use of her borrowed time.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

2 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: jatkoaika — Translations
  • Spanish: tiempo emprestado — Translations