time killer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumInformal, colloquial
Quick answer
What does “time killer” mean?
An activity or object that helps pass time, especially when bored or waiting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An activity or object that helps pass time, especially when bored or waiting.
Something that occupies time but is often considered trivial, unproductive, or merely distracting; can imply a way to avoid boredom or procrastinate.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties use the term similarly. 'Time-waster' is a more direct synonym in both.
Connotations
Slightly more negative in British English, often implying futility. In American English, can be more neutral, like a simple 'distraction'.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both dialects.
Grammar
How to Use “time killer” in a Sentence
[Activity/Thing] is a good time killer.Use [X] as a time killer.I need a time killer for the journey.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “time killer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- This puzzle game time-kills quite effectively.
- I'm just time-killing until my train arrives.
American English
- I'm just killing time with this app.
- He time-killed by browsing his phone.
adjective
British English
- It's a great time-killing activity for the commute.
American English
- She downloaded a time-killing game for the flight.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; if used, implies unproductive meetings or tasks.
Academic
Very rare; would critique unproductive study methods.
Everyday
Common for describing games, apps, or activities while waiting.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “time killer”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “time killer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “time killer”
- Using it in formal writing.
- Spelling as one word 'timekiller' (should be two words or hyphenated).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is generally neutral to slightly negative, implying the activity is not very important or productive. Context determines the tone.
No, it is an informal, colloquial term. Use 'diversion', 'pastime', or 'distraction' in formal contexts.
A hobby is a regular, enjoyable activity often done for pleasure and skill development. A time killer is specifically for passing idle time and may not be a sustained interest.
It is most commonly written as two separate words ('time killer'). The hyphenated form 'time-killer' is also acceptable, especially when used as a compound modifier (e.g., a time-killer app).
An activity or object that helps pass time, especially when bored or waiting.
Time killer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtaɪm ˌkɪl.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtaɪm ˌkɪl.ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Kill time”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a clock (time) being 'killed' by an activity, like a game defeating boredom.
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME IS A RESOURCE (that can be 'killed' or used up).
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'time killer' most appropriately?