Differences between in time and on time: keys to not forgetting

[bitheerani319]

One of the peculiarities of English is how much the preposition we put next to a word can affect its meaning. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember what each expression means when the difference is so subtle, so today we bring you a review of these two easily confused expressions : in time / on time .



What is in time used for?
The expression in time , like the other expression we will talk about in estonia phone number list article, is used to talk about arriving on time . So, what are the differences between in time/on time ?

Downloadable guide: The most common mistakes made by Spaniards and how to avoid them

To begin with, in time is used to say that we are not late, that we have time to do what we have to do:

The bus was late, but we got there in time.
It can also be combined with the preposition for or with to to indicate what activity we will have time to do:

They arrived in time for the concert.
She arrived in time to see him leave .
The expression just in time is also used to indicate that you arrive just in time for something:

They arrived just in time for lunch.
And you may have seen in time in one more context, although in this case the meaning is very different. It can also be used as a translation of “with the passage of time”:

You'll forget about it in time .
Now let's move on to the other expression.

What is on time used for?
You've probably seen on time on boards in airports or stations to indicate that a flight, bus or train is not delayed. This expression means that something happens at the time it is supposed to happen. Unlike in time , on time does indicate an exact time. Sometimes they can be interchangeable, but most of the time they are not, and it is important to know when to use each one: