Grammar Puzzles Solved (21): “What is the difference between ‘in time’, ‘on time’, and ‘the right time’? Which preposition should be used with the word ‘time’?”

by ndxx5 · Published April 7, 2025 · Updated May 25, 2025

1. “On time” means punctual or at the scheduled time.

👉 Use it when something happens neither early nor late—exactly as planned.

🔍 Preposition: “On” is the correct preposition used in the phrase “on time.”

2. “In time” means before it’s too late or just early enough.

👉 Use it when something happens with enough time to spare, mainly to avoid a negative outcome.

3. “The right time” refers to the most suitable or appropriate moment to do something.

Phrase	Meaning	Preposition Used
On time	Punctual / according to a schedule	on
In time	Early enough / before it’s too late	in
The right time	Most appropriate or ideal moment	at