Time is part of almost every conversation. We ask about the time, make plans, discuss schedules, talk about being early or late, and arrange meetings. In this lesson, you’ll experience natural conversations that help you speak confidently in everyday situations.
Pro Tip: Native speakers often talk about time naturally instead of using exact clock times. You’ll frequently hear expressions like around five, a little early, right on time, or in about ten minutes.
Useful Expressions
- What time is it?
- What time does it start?
- It’s almost…
- It’s about…
- I’m running late.
- I’ll be there in a few minutes.
- Let’s meet at…
- Are you free this afternoon?
- Can we meet earlier?
- I’ll be on time.
- Sorry for being late.
- How long will it take?
- See you in an hour.
- I have plenty of time.
- Time flies!
Questions & Answers
1. What time do you usually wake up?
I usually wake up at 6:30 in the morning.
2. What time do you go to work or school?
I leave around 8 o’clock.
3. Are you usually on time?
Yes, I try to be on time.
4. What do you do when you’re late?
I call or send a message.
5. Do you like morning or evening?
I prefer the evening.
6. How long does it take you to get to work?
It takes about 30 minutes.
7. When is your lunch break?
It’s at 1 p.m.
8. What time do you usually have dinner?
Around 8 p.m.
9. Do you wear a watch?
Yes, I wear one every day.
10. What time do you usually go to bed?
I usually sleep around 11 p.m.
Conversation
Emma: Hi, what time is it?
Ryan: It’s almost three o’clock.
Emma: Really? I thought it was only two.
Ryan: Time goes by quickly today.
Emma: What time does the meeting start?
Ryan: At 3:30.
Emma: Great. We still have some time.
Ryan: Yes. Let’s grab a coffee first.
Emma: Good idea.
Ryan: We should leave in about fifteen minutes.
Emma: Perfect. That gives us enough time.
Ryan: Let’s go when you’re ready.
Real-Life Conversation
Neha: Hi, where are you?
Arjun: I’m on my way.
Neha: How far are you?
Arjun: About ten minutes away.
Neha: I thought we were meeting at 5.
Arjun: Yes, but traffic is heavy.
Neha: No problem.
Arjun: Thanks for waiting.
Neha: I’m sitting near the entrance.
Arjun: Great. I can see the building now.
Neha: Take your time.
Arjun: I’ll be there in two minutes.
Neha: Do you want me to order coffee?
Arjun: Yes, please.
Neha: What would you like?
Arjun: A cappuccino, please.
Neha: Done.
Arjun: Sorry for being late.
Neha: It happens.
Arjun: Thanks for understanding.
Neha: No worries.
Arjun: Shall we start after the coffee arrives?
Neha: Sounds good.
Arjun: Let’s make the most of our time.
Neha: Absolutely!
Quick Practice
Change the Words
Replace the highlighted words with another natural expression.
- I’m late. → ______________________
- I’ll arrive soon. → ______________________
- It’s almost six. → ______________________
- Let’s meet at 7 p.m. → ______________________
- It takes 30 minutes. → ______________________
Answer the Questions
- What time do you usually wake up?
- Are you ever late for work or school?
- How long does it take you to travel?
- What is your favorite time of the day?
- When do you usually relax?
Complete the Sentences
- I’ll be there in __________.
- Let’s meet at __________.
- It takes me __________ to reach work.
- I’m sorry I’m __________.
- I usually go to bed at __________.
Speaking Challenge
Imagine your friend is waiting for you at a café.
Speak for one minute and include these ideas:
- Tell your friend you’re on the way.
- Explain why you’re late.
- Say how long it will take.
- Apologize politely.
- Suggest what to do while waiting.
- Confirm the new meeting time.
Try to speak without reading and use at least five expressions from this lesson.
Common Mistakes
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| I am coming in 5 minutes. (when you haven’t left yet) | I’ll be there in 5 minutes. |
| What time now? | What time is it now? |
| I am late for five minutes. | I’m five minutes late. |
| We will meet on 5 p.m. | We’ll meet at 5 p.m. |
| It take 20 minutes. | It takes 20 minutes. |
Lesson Summary
Remember these useful expressions:
- What time is it?
- It’s almost…
- It’s about…
- I’m running late.
- I’ll be there in a few minutes.
- Let’s meet at…
- Are you free this afternoon?
- I’ll be on time.
- Sorry for being late.
- How long will it take?
- See you in an hour.
- I have plenty of time.
- Time flies!
