Time's winged chariot
Definitions
- the swift passage of time
to emphasize the rapid passing of time and the fleeting nature of life
Examples of Time's winged chariot
She knew that her time on this earth was coming to an end, and often found solace in the thought that time's winged chariot would soon take her away.
This example uses the idiom "time's winged chariot" to describe the passage of time as if it were a chariot being pulled by winged creatures. The speaker is implying that the person being referred to is aware that death is approaching, and that the inevitable progression of time will eventually take them away.
As he sat on the balcony watching the sun set, he couldn't help but think that life was swiftly passing him by, for time's winged chariot was carrying him closer to the end.
In this example, the speaker is using the idiom to illustrate the fleeting nature of life, and how it can seem to be moving at an alarming pace. By comparing time to a chariot being pulled by winged creatures, the speaker is implying that life is a journey that cannot be halted or slowed.
Their love affair was a thing of intense passion and beauty, but time's winged chariot would not wait for them to enjoy its fruits forever.
This example uses the idiom to suggest that time is an unavoidable force that will eventually come to take even the happiest and most beautiful things away. In this case, the speakers are implying that despite the intensity and beauty of their love affair, it will eventually come to an end as time marches on.
The days passed by in a blur of activity, with the knowledge that time's winged chariot was carrying him along at a breakneck speed.
In this final example, the speaker is again using the idiom to convey the idea that time seems to be passing at an overwhelming rate, as if it were a chariot being pulled by winged creatures at lightning speed. By using this idiom, the speaker is implying that life can seem to be moving too quickly to fully appreciate or enjoy all that it has to offer.
The old man knew that his days were numbered and often remarked, "Time's winged chariot draws near."
This idiom refers to the inevitability of time and its unstoppable progress. The phrase "winged chariot" is a poetic way of describing time as a swift and powerful force that carries us along towards our eventual end. In the example given, the old man is recognizing that his time on earth is coming to a close.
She was a modern woman who refused to let time dictate her pace. Instead, she vowed to seize every moment, knowing all too well that time's winged chariot would not wait for her.
This usage of the idiom illustrates a more active and defiant approach to time's inexorable march. By rejecting the notion that time is an outside force that we are powerless against, the woman in this example chooses to take control of her life and live it on her own terms.
The sun set behind the horizon, casting a golden hue across the sky. For a moment, the world stood still as time's winged chariot paused in its tracks, almost as if awed by the beauty of the scene.
This example uses the idiom in a more poetic and metaphorical way to describe a moment of stillness and serenity. By likening the pause of time to a winged chariot, the writer paints a vivid and engaging picture of the peaceful sunset.
The crowded city streets were a blur as he raced against time's winged chariot. Every second felt like an eternity as he rushed towards his destination, determined to make the most of the fleeting minutes that remained.
Here, the idiom is used to convey a sense of urgency and haste. The man in this example is pushing himself to the limit in order to make the most of the precious time that remains, emphasizing the fleeting and ephemeral nature of time itself.
Conclusion
The idiom "Time's winged chariot" is often used to express the idea that time passes quickly and that life is short. It can be used to remind someone to make the most of their time or to reflect on the transience of life.Origin of "Time's winged chariot"
The phrase "Time's winged chariot" originates from the poem "To His Coy Mistress" by Andrew Marvell, a 17th-century English poet. In the poem, the speaker tries to persuade his lover to seize the day and not let time slip away. He uses the image of time as a chariot with wings to convey the idea of its swift and unstoppable passage. The phrase has since become a popular idiom to convey the fleeting nature of time and the urgency to make the most of it. For example, someone might use the idiom to remind a friend to cherish the present moment or to make the most of their opportunities.