THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
In the nick of time
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
Just before it would have been too late.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- We reached the platform in the nick of time and caught the last train.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
We reached the platform ________ and caught the last train.
Show the answer
In the nick of time — Just before it would have been too late.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “In the nick of time” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
Just before it would have been too late.
Compare: We reached the platform in the nick of time and caught the last train.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it for an arrival or action that narrowly avoids a missed opportunity or problem. It suits everyday conversation and general writing.
More examples in context
- The spare cable arrived in the nick of time for the presentation.
- I saved the document in the nick of time before the battery ran out.
Usage note
Keep the in the phrase. It means barely early enough, not early with plenty of time to spare.
A short conversation
A: Did you catch the bus?
B: Yes, I reached the stop in the nick of time.
A: I am glad you made it.
One more practice question
Which arrival is in the nick of time?
A. Arriving just before the doors close and still getting inside.
B. Arriving after the doors close and missing the event.
Check your answer
A. The person arrives just early enough to avoid being too late.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.