time is up

Idioms  

1. The period of time allowed for something is ended, as in Turn in your papers, students; time is up. This idiom uses up in the sense of “completed” or “expired,” a usage dating from about 1400.

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Example Sentences

"The Games are no longer sustainable from an environmental or a social point of view, their time is up," 29-year-old protester Francesca Missana told AFP.

From Barron's • Feb. 7, 2026

How much of the lyrics were understood by the Vietnamese at the time is up for debate, although the title and upbeat sound may have contributed to its popularity as a new year’s anthem.

From Salon • Dec. 31, 2025

It looks like Raheem Sterling's time is up after he was left out of Chelsea's first two Premier League games and has been training away from the first-team squad.

From BBC • Aug. 26, 2024

Set aside, and set a timer for 15 minutes; when time is up, drain the vinegar from the raisins and reserve the vinegar for salad dressings or other uses.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 9, 2024

Jamie gets “Planet of the Apes” and Brandon guesses before half their time is up.

From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman