"Time Flies" Meaning and Examples

The expression "time flies" is an idiomatic phrase that means time passes quickly or seems to move rapidly. It is often used to express surprise or nostalgia at how swiftly time has gone by.

How would "time flies" be used in context? Imagine a group of friends gathering for a reunion after several years apart. They start reminiscing about their school days, and someone suddenly realizes how many years have passed since they graduated. They might say, "Wow, time flies!" in this context to express their amazement at how quickly the years have passed since their school days.

Different cultures have expressions similar to "time flies." Spanish has an expression that also literally translates to "time flies" while the Korean language has a common saying that means "time is fast." Even across different cultures, this is a common occurrence in human society and is very telling about people's perception of time.

Example sentences

It feels like just yesterday we were in high school, and now we're all adults. Time flies!
I can't believe it's been five years since we moved to this city. Time flies when you're having fun.
We've been married for 20 years already? Time flies when you're in love.
I remember bringing my baby home from the hospital, and now they're starting school. Time flies.
It's hard to believe our vacation is over already. Time flies when you're enjoying yourself.
I was so focused on my work that I didn't notice how quickly time was flying by.
When you're with good friends, hours feel like minutes. Time really flies.
In the blink of an eye, our children have grown up and are ready to leave for college. Time flies, doesn't it?
I've been so engrossed in this book that I didn't realize how much time had flown by.
Looking back at old photographs, I'm reminded of how time flies and how much has changed.

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