11 Ways to Ask for the Time
Knowing how to ask for the time is a basic but essential English skill—especially when you’re traveling, in a hurry, or just checking your schedule. These 11 ways to ask for the time include polite, casual, and natural-sounding phrases you can use with strangers, friends, or coworkers. The right words help you sound confident, not awkward!
Common Ways to Say ‘What Time Is It?’
Polite & Standard
- Excuse me, what time is it? The most common and universally polite way. Excuse me, what time is it? My phone died.
- Could you tell me the time, please? Very polite—ideal when asking strangers. Could you tell me the time, please? I don’t have my watch.
- Do you happen to have the time? Gentle and non-demanding—sounds natural and friendly. Do you happen to have the time? I’m late for my bus.
- Would you mind telling me the time? Extra courteous—great in formal or quiet settings. Would you mind telling me the time? I don’t want to miss my train.
Casual & Conversational
- What time is it? Direct and common among friends or peers. What time is it? Is it lunch yet?
- Got the time? Very informal—used in relaxed settings (mostly US English). Got the time? My phone’s in the other room.
- Do you know what time it is? Sounds natural in everyday chats. Do you know what time it is? I think the movie starts soon.
Asking About Specific Times
- What time does the store open? Useful for schedules, not just the current hour. What time does the store open? I need to go early.
- When does the meeting start? Focuses on a future event’s time. When does the meeting start? I want to be on time.
- Is it almost [time] yet? Friendly way to check if something is near. Is it almost 5 o’clock yet? I’m starving!
- How late is it? Often used when you’re tired or surprised by the hour. How late is it? I didn’t realize it was past midnight!
Real-Life Dialogues
Traveler: Excuse me, could you tell me the time, please?
Local: Sure! It’s 2:15.
Traveler: Thank you! Do you know what time the next bus leaves?
Local: At 2:30—just five minutes away!
Friend A: Got the time?
Friend B: Yeah, it’s 11:45.
Friend A: Is it almost noon yet? I’m supposed to call my mom.
Friend B: Almost!
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Asking a stranger on the street | Excuse me, what time is it? | Polite, clear, and universally accepted. |
| Talking to a friend casually | Got the time? | Short, natural, and common in everyday US English. |
| Checking a schedule | What time does the store open? | Practical and focused on useful information. |
| Being extra courteous (e.g., in a library) | Would you mind telling me the time? | Shows high respect and awareness of setting. |
Practice Tip
Next time you’re out, try asking someone for the time using one of the polite phrases—even if you already know! It’s great real-world practice.
Why This Matters
- Using these 11 ways to ask for the time helps you handle everyday situations with confidence—especially while traveling.
- It shows cultural awareness: polite phrasing makes people more willing to help you.
- These phrases are simple but foundational—they build your fluency in real-world English interactions.
Time is always ticking—but now you know exactly how to ask for it politely and naturally! Try using one of these 11 ways to ask for the time in your next conversation. Happy learning! 😊
