It’s time, it’s about time, and the more emphatic it’s high time are followed by a subject plus the past simple, even though the meaning refers to the present or near future, as in it’s high time we left. Without a stated subject, use the to-infinitive instead, as in it’s time to leave.
Grammar Rule
It’s time, it’s about time, and the more emphatic it’s high time are followed by a subject plus past simple, even though the meaning refers to the present or near future — another hypothetical/unreal past, as after wish. The to-infinitive is only correct with no separate subject stated.
It’s (About/High) Time + Past Simple: Rules and Examples
| Pattern | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| It’s (about/high) time + subject | + past simple, present/future meaning | It’s high time we left. |
| It’s time (no subject) | + to-infinitive | It’s time to leave. |
Remember: After it’s (about/high) time plus subject, always use the past simple, never the present or the to-infinitive.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using it’s (about/high) time with the past simple correctly. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
C1-11 It's (About/High) Time + Past Simple
Click «Start the test» to begin right away — no signup required. You can get a personalized certificate with your name and score at the end, if you want one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tense follows it’s (about/high) time plus a subject?
The past simple, even though the meaning is present or future, as in it’s high time we left.
What follows it’s time when there is no separate subject?
The to-infinitive, as in it’s time to leave.
Why does it’s time use a past tense for present meaning?
Because it is a hypothetical, unreal past, similar to the tense used after wish.
Is it’s high time more emphatic than it’s time?
Yes, it’s high time and it’s about time add emphasis to the criticism of a delay.