ENGLISH
REFERENCE

beat the clock

idiom
Meaning

To perform a task or successfully complete an activity within a time limit.


Examples
SIMPLE

We must finish this report to beat the clock.

CONTEXTUAL

The students worked quickly to beat the clock before the teacher collected their final exams.

COMPLEX

Despite the sudden technical failures, the dedicated crew managed to beat the clock and launch the satellite before the narrow window of opportunity closed.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    around the clock

    Alternative form of around-the-clock.

  2. 02

    beat a dead horse

    To persist or continue far beyond any purpose, interest or reason.

  3. 03

    beat a retreat

    To leave hastily in the face of opposition.

  4. 04

    beat around the bush

    To treat a topic, but omit its main points, often intentionally.

  5. 05

    beat as one

    To share the same feelings.

  6. 06

    beat Banaghan

    To tell wonderful stories, or something which is amazing and remarkable.

  7. 07

    beat feet

    To run.

  8. 08

    beat it

    To leave; to go away.

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