Time and again

Meaning

"Time and again" is an idiom that means repeatedly or consistently. It refers to a situation or action that happens multiple times, usually in the past or will happen in the future. The figurative meaning of the idiom is often used to express frustration or disappointment when someone keeps repeating the same mistake or behavior.

Usage

• John made the same mistake on his exam time and again, despite my warnings.
• My boss expects me to finish this project by Friday time and again, even though I already completed it last week.
• Sarah kept forgetting her umbrella and getting soaked time and again until she finally remembered to bring it with her.
• The new employee made the same mistake on his first day of work time and again during his probation period.
• We have tried different solutions for this problem time and again, but nothing seems to work.

Roots and History

The idiom "time and again" can be traced back to medieval times when people would ask to repeat a speech or action during a meeting. The phrase was used in the early 18th century in English literature and has since become a common expression in contemporary language. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has evolved from a literal request for repetition to a figurative expression of frustration or disappointment.

Synonyms in English

• Again and again
• Repeatedly
• Consistently
• Over and over
• Multiple times

Synonyms in other languages

• French: La même chose à plusieurs reprises
• Spanish: De nuevo y de nuevo
• German: Zum Nünchsten Male
• Italian: Nuovo e nuovo
• Portuguese: De novo e de novo

Similar Idioms

• the die is cast

• old school

• for a while