just in time
/ˈdʒʌst ɪn taɪm/phrase★Intermediate
informal
At the last possible moment before something is needed or required; without delay.
The package arrived just in time for the birthday party.
The delivery was just in time to meet the deadline.
💡
Often used to describe timely arrivals or completions that occur at the critical moment.
Collocations
just in time forAt the exact moment something is needed.just in time toArriving or completing something at the last possible moment.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
in the nick of timephrase
At the very last moment before something bad happens
at the eleventh hourphrase
At the last possible moment
💡Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'just in time' to emphasize punctuality in a positive or urgent context.
⚡Gold Rule
Punctuation Rule
The phrase is typically written without a comma (e.g., 'just in time'), but a comma may be used for emphasis in some cases.
📖Word Origin
The phrase combines 'just' (exactly) and 'in time' (at the right moment), emphasizing punctuality and urgency.
📝Usage Notes
Common in both casual and professional contexts, often used to describe critical timing in events or processes.
Word Breakdown
just
exactly
adverbin time
at the right moment
phraseEnglish Dictionary