# give someone time

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/give-someone-time
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To grant an individual a sufficient amount of time to finish doing something; especially, to modify their viewpoint or attitude.

## Examples

- Please give him time to finish his work.
- She is still upset about the news, so you should give her time to process it.
- Although the transition to the new management system was difficult, the board decided to give the employees time to adapt before enforcing the stricter policies.

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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.