What does “Do time” mean?
"Do time" means to serve a prison sentence.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He was convicted of robbery and had to do time in prison.
Example
After being found guilty, he was sentenced to do time for five years.
Example
She's been in and out of jail, but this time she'll really have to do time
Is “Do time” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Do time” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Do time” effectively in context?
You can use "Do time" to refer to serving a prison sentence. It emphasizes the act of being incarcerated and fulfilling the required time behind bars. For example, if someone asks about a friend who was convicted of a crime, you might say, 'He was found guilty and now he has to do time in prison.'
- 1Legal Proceedings
After being convicted of fraud, he had no choice but to do time in a federal penitentiary.
- 2Criminal Justice
The judge sentenced him to do time for his involvement in the drug trafficking ring.
- 3Personal Experience
She's been in and out of jail, but this time she'll really have to do time for her crimes.
Similar phrases to “Do time”:
To be confined in a prison or correctional facility
Example
The convicted murderer will be incarcerated for the rest of his life.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Do time” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Do time" is unknown.
Is “Do time” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Do time" is a common expression used in everyday conversation, especially when discussing legal matters or criminal justice. It is frequently used to describe the act of serving a prison sentence.
What tone does “Do time” have?
"Do time" conveys a serious and somber tone. It is often used when discussing legal consequences and the punishment of imprisonment.
Can “Do time” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "do time" is more commonly used in informal conversations, particularly when discussing personal experiences or sharing information about someone's legal situation. However, it can also be used in more formal settings such as legal proceedings or discussions related to criminal justice.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He was convicted of robbery and had to do time in prison.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "do time"!' to imply readiness to face the consequences of one's actions.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- serve a sentence
- be imprisoned
- be locked up
- be behind bars
- be in custody
Antonyms
- be free
- be released
- get out of jail
- be acquitted
- avoid prison
