What does “Eleventh hour” mean?
"Eleventh hour" means something that happens or is done at the last possible moment.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He always finishes his work at the eleventh hour.
Example
They made a decision at the eleventh hour to change the venue.
Example
I submitted my assignment at the eleventh hour before the deadline
Is “Eleventh hour” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Eleventh hour” 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 “Eleventh hour” effectively in context?
You can use "Eleventh Hour" to describe a situation where something is done or decided at the last possible moment. It emphasizes the sense of urgency and the need to act quickly. For instance, if someone always procrastinates and finishes their work just before the deadline, you might say, 'He always finishes his work at the eleventh hour.'
- 1Work
They made a decision at the eleventh hour to change the venue for the conference.
- 2Academics
I submitted my assignment at the eleventh hour before the deadline.
- 3Planning
They finalized the details of the event at the eleventh hour.
Similar phrases to “Eleventh hour”:
Last-minute
Done or decided at the last possible moment
Example
He always completes his assignments at the last minute.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Eleventh hour” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Eleventh Hour" can be traced back to biblical references. In the Bible, the eleventh hour refers to the last hour of the workday, which was considered the final opportunity for laborers to find employment for the day. Over time, the phrase has evolved to mean the last possible moment or the final opportunity to take action.
Is “Eleventh hour” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Eleventh Hour" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where something is done or decided at the last minute.
What tone does “Eleventh hour” have?
"Eleventh Hour" conveys a tone of urgency and emphasizes the need for prompt action. It implies that time is running out and highlights the importance of making decisions or completing tasks quickly.
Can “Eleventh hour” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Eleventh Hour" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a specific timeframe and the need for timely action. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, presentations, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They made a decision at the eleventh hour.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's the "eleventh hour"!' to imply that time is running out.
