Meaning of beat the clock | Babel Free

Definitions

1. To perform a task or successfully complete an activity within a time limit.
   idiomatic
2. To be used or become operational before a deadline or date of expiration.
   idiomatic
3. To remain youthful; to live a long, healthy life.
   idiomatic

Examples

“He and Mr. Goldie have managed to beat the clock, finishing and printing the book themselves while Mr. Murray is still alive.”

“Evander Kane just beat the clock in the final hour before the NHL lockout, agreeing to terms with the Winnipeg Jets on a six-year, $31.5 million contract.”

“Judge Randall Thomas dropped a dozen theft charges against Hunt . . ., ruling that the indictment came after a three-year state statute of limitations had run out. One ethics charge—punishable by up to $10,000 and 10 years behind bars—did beat the clock.”

“[T]he man who looked like an ageing rocker trying to beat the clock, was none other than Robert Lee Vesco.”

“From getting a good night's sleep to keeping your teeth and gums healthy, there are plenty of tricks you can employ to beat the clock.”

CEFR level