take time by the forelock
To seize an opportunity quickly before it is no longer available.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“You should take time by the forelock and apply for that job now.”
“The market prices are dropping, so you must take time by the forelock if you want to buy a house at a discount.”
“Recognizing that the window of opportunity was closing, the entrepreneur decided to take time by the forelock and secure the contract before her competitors could react.”
- 01
a week is a long time in politics
In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.
- 02
about time
Far past the desired time.
- 03
any time now
Very soon.
- 04
any time soon
soon
- 05
be taken ill
To become ill.
- 06
better luck next time
Used to wish somebody hope in future success after a failure.
- 07
bide one's time
To wait, especially for a suitable opportunity.
- 08
borrowed time
A period of time whose precise duration is not known but which can be expected to be quite limited, and at the end of which one's situation, benefits, or opportunities will be entirely terminated.
Last updated August 10, 2026