ENGLISH
REFERENCE

do one's own time

idiom
Meaning

To serve a prison sentence without becoming involved in any illicit dealings or prison gangs.


Examples
SIMPLE

He keeps to himself and does his own time.

CONTEXTUAL

The veteran inmate advised the newcomer to stay out of trouble and just do his own time.

COMPLEX

Despite the volatile atmosphere within the cell block, he maintained a quiet discipline and focused solely on doing his own time.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a week is a long time in politics

    In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.

  2. 02

    abound in one's own sense

    To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.

  3. 03

    about time

    Far past the desired time.

  4. 04

    ace up one's sleeve

    A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.

  5. 05

    act one's age

    To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.

  6. 06

    act one's age, not one's shoe size

    Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).

  7. 07

    afraid of one's own shadow

    Exceptionally timid.

  8. 08

    air one's dirty laundry in public

    To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.

Last updated July 12, 2026