# clock is ticking

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/clock-is-ticking
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Time is running out; a deadline is approaching.

## Examples

- The clock is ticking on our project deadline.
- We must finish this report by five o'clock, and the clock is ticking.
- As the final hours of the negotiation approached, the mediator reminded both parties that the clock is ticking on their opportunity for a peaceful resolution.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.