Time is money

Meaning

Time wasted costs financial opportunity.

Usage

Used in business to stress efficient use of time.

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.

Ben Franklin popularized the aphorism in essays promoting productivity.

Appeared in 'Advice to a Young Tradesman' in 1748.