Difference between ‘in time & on time’
(How to differentiate ‘in time’ and ‘on time’)
Table of contents – difference of ‘in time & on time’
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When and how are ‘in time’ and ‘on time’ used?
The English time adverbials in time and on time are often confused when used. Both expressions sound similar; however, they have a slight difference in meaning. For details on where they can appear in a sentence, see adverbials of indefinite time and the grammatical modifier
. Compare their usage and sense they express in the following examples:
- The expression ‘in time’ is used in the sense of ‘early enough’, which means that some time remains:
- “Will you be ready in time for the meeting?”
- “I’m awaiting a letter. I hope it will get here in time before the holidays.”
- “I’m playing tennis this afternoon. I want to be there in time to change.”
- Information: ‘just in time’ is also often utilised, which means ‘nearly too late’:
- “I got to the airport just in time to catch my flight.”
- The phrase ‘on time’, on the other hand, is employed in the sense of ‘punctual’ and refers to a specific point in time, e.g., a time of day:
- “The next train leaves on time at one o’clock.”
- “Peter is very reliable. He’s always on time.”
- “Let’s meet at 11.30 and be there on time, please. This time I won’t wait.”
Further explanations related to the usage of ‘in/on time’
The following explanations are relating to the English grammar topic ‘Differentiation of ‘in time’ and ‘on time’’ and could be helpful for you too: