🕰️ Time and Time Again: An Unfailing Favorite
Time and time again: Repeatedly, often. This version of the earlier time and again, or again and again, dates from the late nineteenth century. Evelyn Waugh used it in The Ordeal of Gilbert Pinfold (1957): “. . . envying painters who are allowed to return to the same theme time and time again.”
Synonyms:
- Repeatedly
- Frequently
- Often
- Consistently
- Over and over
Antonyms:
- Rarely
- Occasionally
- Seldom
Similar Idioms and Phrases:
- Again and again: Evoking a sense of endless repetition, like hitting the replay button on your favorite song.
- Over and over (again): Like that playlist that’s stuck on loop, whether you like it or not!
- Time after time: Not just a catchy Cyndi Lauper song, but a promise of reliable frequency.
Humorous Quote:
“Repetition is the mother of learning… unless you’re trying to learn without caffeine. Then it’s just the mother of frustration.” — Anonymous Student
Related Proverbs:
- “Practice makes perfect.” (Hint: You might have to fail a lot before you get anywhere close to perfection.)
- “Repetition is the key to mastery.” (Clearly said by someone who never learned how to juggle.)
Illustrative Literature and References:
- The Ordeal of Gilbert Pinfold by Evelyn Waugh (1957)
- Groundhog Day (1993) – This movie really puts the phrase to the test!
- Catch-22 by Joseph Heller – A title synonymous with repetitive, cyclical dilemmas.
- Time and Again by Jack Finney – A juicy sci-fi novel that definitely does not refer to our idiom literally, but you’d be missing out if we didn’t mention it.
Inspirational Thought:
Sometimes, doing something time and time again reveals the true depth and beauty of perseverance. Whether it’s mastering a skill, developing a habit, or simply understanding something deeply, repetition can be the enchanting rhythm that dances you closer to excellence.
Author’s Farewell:
Remember to embrace the magic of repetition—and perhaps, the stories and songs that become sweeter the second, third, or ’time and time again’ time around. 😉
Farewell and happy idiom-ing, dear reader!
