time is of the essence

Definitions

1. Time is an essential consideration (in regard to an action or response); haste is necessary.
2. Failure to complete the required performance by the date certain set forth will constitute an incurable breach.

Equivalents

Examples

“Near-synonyms: no time to lose⟳, clock is ticking, clock is running, time is ticking, time is short; tick-tock (interjection)”

“When transporting organs for transplant, time is of the essence.”

“You must realize⟳ that time is of the essence in regards to your money management and wealth creation.”

“Patients lack the expertise to promptly obtain⟳ critically time-dependent referrals. When time is of the essence, the clinician and staff must assume⟳ direct⟳ responsibility to assure the stat referral to a microsurgeon is promptly accomplished.”

“Time is of the essence is the mantra in business transactions. Fulfilling the mantra of time is of the essence, depends on the capability of making realistic time estimates of what it takes to complete⟳ a series of tasks regardless of their complexity and making appropriate decisions.”

“Time was of the essence, U.S. and Ukrainian officials believed.”

“Most construction phase agreements and some pre-construction agreements contain⟳ a time is of the essence provision. If time is of the essence, a delay⟳ caused by the fault of the construction manager would constitute a breach of contract and could result⟳ in the construction manager's being liable for damages incurred by the owner as a result⟳ of the delay⟳. If there is no time is of the essence provision, reasonableness will be the guide⟳ when measuring the timelines of the services provided by the construction manager.”

“In a variety of contracts, the courts have⟳ held that the requirement that time is of the essence should be applied to the respective obligations of both parties (examples are between (a) buyer and seller, (b) ship owner and charterer, (c) purchaser and vendor, and (d) contractor and owner). Time is normally of the essence where:[…].”

“If there is no express⟳ stipulation in the contract that time is of the essence, it can be made so by serving a notice⟳ fixing a specified time for completion.”

CEFR level