le temps presse
The English phrase "the clock is ticking" is translated into French as le temps presse.
This phrase is used to say that time is running out and a decision or action is needed quickly.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase le temps presse literally translates to "time presses."
Which one should you use?
While English uses the metaphor of a ticking clock, French uses the concept of time 'pressing' or exerting pressure.
Did you know?
- The French word temps is a homonym, meaning it is used to describe both the passage of 'time' and the state of the 'weather'.
- While le temps presse creates a feeling of urgency, the French word flâner describes the exact opposite: the art of wandering aimlessly with no sense that time is running out.
- The verb presser in le temps presse is the same word used in the phrase presser le pas, which specifically means to speed up the physical pace of one's walking.
Examples in context
- Le temps presse, nous devons agir rapidementThe clock is ticking, we must act quickly
- Dépêche-toi, le temps file!Hurry up, time is slipping away!
- Attends, on n'a plus beaucoup de temps pour acheter des billetsWait, we don't have much time left to buy tickets
- Dépêche-toi, le temps presse !Hurry up, the clock is ticking!
- Vite, le temps presse pour finir ce projet.Quick, the clock is ticking to finish this project.
- On doit décider maintenant, le temps presse.We must decide now, time is running out.
- Le temps presse avant la fermeture du magasin.The clock is ticking before the store closes.
Example conversation
Manon and Lucas are preparing for an upcoming deadline at work.
- ManonLucas, il faut envoyer le dossier rapidement.Lucas, we need to send the file quickly.
- LucasJe sais, le temps presse vraiment.I know, the clock is really ticking.
- ManonTu as presque terminé, n'est-ce pas ?You are almost finished, aren't you?
- LucasOui, je finis cela dans cinq minutes.Yes, I will finish this in five minutes.
