- All day and all night without stopping; 24 hours a day.
Explanation
Origin
- Refers literally to the hands of a clock completing a full circle (or two full circles for 24 hours).
- It emphasizes continuity and the entire duration covered by a clock face over a full day/night cycle.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- All day, all night
- Constantly (Less specific to the 24-hour cycle, but implies continuity)
More Formal:
- Continuously operational
- Operating on a 24-hour basis
Emphasizing Effort:
- Working tirelessly
- Without a break
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most contexts, informal to formal.
- Very common and widely understood. 24/7 is perhaps slightly more modern and common in casual/business contexts, but around the clock is also very standard.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally straightforward.
- Ensure learners understand it means continuous operation/activity throughout the full 24-hour cycle.
Examples
- The emergency services worked around the clock after the earthquake.
- This convenience store is open around the clock.
- He's been studying around the clock for his final exams.
Dialogue
Doctor A: How's the patient in ICU doing?
Doctor B: Stable, but requires monitoring around the clock. The nursing staff have been incredible.
Doctor A: Good. Let's hope for continued improvement. It's tough work.
Social Media Examples
- News Tweet: Rescue teams are working around the clock searching for survivors. #emergency #update
- Business Ad: Our customer support is available around the clock to assist you. #support #24/7
- Personal Post: Studying around the clock for this exam! Send coffee! ☕ #studentlife #exams #nosleep
Response Patterns
- Wow, that's intense!
- They must be exhausted.
- That's dedication.
- Is it really open 24/7?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing something operates/happens around the clock:
- Might inquire about the reasons for the continuous activity (e.g., Why do they need to work so long?).
- Might express concern for those involved (How do they manage shifts?).
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Describes the duration or timing of an activity or service.
Intonation
- Usually spoken in a neutral, descriptive tone.
- Can be emphasized to highlight the intensity or duration. Stress on around and clock.
- They worked aROUND the CLOCK.
Generation Differences
- Universally understood and used across generations. 24/7 might be slightly more prevalent among younger generations, but both are common.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.