Knick of Time Meaning and Definition
Knick of time
Pronunciation
/nɪk əv taɪm/
Part of Speech
Idiomatic expression
Definition
At the very last moment; just in time; narrowly avoiding a problem or difficulty.
Examples
- We managed to finish the project at the knick of time.
- The ambulance arrived just in the knick of time to save the patient’s life.
Synonyms
- In the nick of time
- At the last minute
Antonyms
- Too late
- Well in advance
Additional Information
The phrase “knick of time” is often used to describe a situation where someone or something manages to avoid a problem or difficulty just in time. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as in business, sports, or everyday life.
The phrase is often used to add drama or tension to a situation, emphasizing the close call or narrow escape.
Eymology
The phrase “knick of time” is believed to have originated in the 17th century, although the exact origin is unclear. It is thought to have come from the phrase “in the nick of time,” which was used in the 14th century.
Usage Notes
The phrase “knick of time” is often used in informal contexts, such as in conversation or in casual writing. It is less commonly used in formal writing or in formal speech.
The phrase can be used in a variety of sentence structures, such as in the passive voice or in the active voice.
Cultural References
The phrase “knick of time” has been used in a variety of cultural contexts, including in literature, film, and music.
For example, the phrase is used in the title of a song by the band Tonic, “If You Could Only See (In the Nick of Time)”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- In the nick of time
- Just in time
- Barely made it
Related Words or Phrases
- Close call
- Narrow escape
- Last-minute
Collocations
- managed to finish in the knick of time
- arrived in the knick of time
- just made it in the knick of time
Frequency of Use
The phrase “knick of time” is moderately common in modern language, although its frequency of use may vary depending on the context and register.
Common Misspellings
- nick of time
- knik of time
- nich of time