out of one’s time—
1. thought to be born at a wrong historical period:
- Kellie was born out of his time. Last piece of history he could have flourished in was the Alaska rushes.
2. beyond one’s period of minority or apprenticeship:
- I have a great deal to ask you about America but I hope to come and see for myself when I am out of my time.
3. with no more time left:
- I am out of my time, Mr. Chairman. I do not know whether you want to let the rest of the panel continue or not.
out of time—
1. (also: off time) not following the rhythm correctly (when playing a piece of music, etc.):
- His little party had posted themselves at every corner to feign a more numerous applause: but clapped out of time.
2. = out of one’s time 1:
- So often it seems that some literary person has been born out of time.
3. = out of one’s time 3:
- I am very sorry if we are out of time, but it seems vital that we have further information on this matter.
Note:
a) The expression does not correlate in meaning with the phrase out of hours—outside the usual hours of business or work:
- We don’t usually keep the lights on out of hours.
b) The expression does not correlate in meaning with the phrase out of season—(also: off season)
1. (of animals) born in the wrong season:
- Jesse and his grandson caught a lamb which had been born out of season and David was permitted to hold it.
2. outside the period of time during which hunting or fishing is officially allowed:
- Some people are particularly attracted to the flavor of “out of season” venison, since it’s forbidden.
3. during a period of time other than the busiest or most popular for a particular activity:
- Our cottages are available year round and “out of season” prices are roughly half the peak summer rental.