Ever messed up an appointment because you said “half past two” when you meant “two thirty”? You’re in good company. Telling time in English can feel like a secret code — but once you crack it, it’s second nature.
This collection of around 133 time-telling words and phrases is your cheat sheet. Every entry comes with a simple meaning, a realistic example sentence, and US IPA so you can pronounce it right. Tap the play button to hear the audio — because hearing it once is worth reading it ten times.
Tick-tock, time learners — if you want the handy extras, scroll to the bottom of the article for the free printable how to tell time in english vocabulary list PDF and the free downloadable printable how to tell time in english flashcards.
Memorizing phrases is one thing — using them in conversation is the real win. Our free English lessons teach you natural chunks so you can talk about time (and everything else) without freezing. Start with Lesson 1 for friendly openings, or browse the full set to build your confidence.
Quick Quiz
<p>Think you’ve got time-telling down? Try the quiz below and find out — it’s quick, painless, and might just surprise you.</p>
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Browse the Full List
| Word / Phrase | IPA | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| What time does it end? | /wʌt taɪm dʌz ɪt ɛnd/ | Asks for the finishing time of an event. | What time does the concert end? |
| What time does it start? | /wʌt taɪm dʌz ɪt stɑːrt/ | Asks for the starting time of an event. | What time does the class start? |
| What time is it? | /wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt/ | Asks for the current time. | What time is it? I'm late. |
| What's the time? | /wʌts ðə taɪm/ | Asks for the current time. | What's the time in London? |
| winter | The coldest season. | It snows in winter. | |
| year | A period of 12 months. | She studied English for one year. | |
| yearly | Every year. | We take a yearly vacation. | |
| yesterday | The day before today. | I called yesterday. |
Free How to Tell Time in English Vocabulary List PDF and Flashcards
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