Time and tide wait for no man

Meaning

Time moves forward regardless of our wishes.

Usage

Used to urge immediate action.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Old proverb linking time with tides.

Recorded as early as the 13th century.