ENGLISH
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time after time

idiom
Meaning

Again and again; repeatedly; every time; always; time and again.


Examples
SIMPLE

He makes the same mistake time after time.

CONTEXTUAL

Even though the machine breaks down time after time, the factory manager refuses to buy a new one.

COMPLEX

Despite the warnings from his advisors, the king ignored the mounting evidence of betrayal, choosing time after time to trust the very people who sought his downfall.

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

    about time

    Far past the desired time.

  3. 03

    any time now

    Very soon.

  4. 04

    any time soon

    soon

  5. 05

    better luck next time

    Used to wish somebody hope in future success after a failure.

  6. 06

    bide one's time

    To wait, especially for a suitable opportunity.

  7. 07

    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.

  8. 08

    burn time

    To waste time unnecessarily.

Last updated April 17, 2026