Live on borrowed time Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To continue living or existing after the time you were expected to die or fail, often surprisingly or against the odds.
Usage & Nuances
This expression is idiomatic and often used for people after surviving a serious illness, accident, or in risky situations. It can also refer to things, like institutions or businesses. It suggests existence past a natural or expected endpoint.
Example Sentences
After his heart attack, the doctors said he was living on borrowed time.
basic
The old bridge is living on borrowed time after so many years of use.
basic
Many endangered animals are living on borrowed time.
basic
Don’t waste your days—you never know if you’re living on borrowed time.
natural
After surviving that car crash, she feels like she’s living on borrowed time every day.
natural
With all these layoffs, my job feels like it’s living on borrowed time lately.
natural