Phrase guide

timing is everything

proverb · 1 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

proverb

Meaning 1

The consideration of other events can greatly influence some desired outcome (such as whether a joke is well received).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • - Telling the old joke about a butt-crack was not a good idea, just as the plumber arrived, Bob. - You know what they say: "timing is everything." I'm sure we can find another plumber before the house floods.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

1 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Danish: timing er alt — consideration of events can influence the outcome