Meaning
Suggest that some things cannot be rushed.
Cultural Background
Reflects the value of 'Gründlichkeit' (thoroughness). Germans believe that quality takes time and rushing leads to 'Pfusch' (shoddy work). In Austria, this phrase is often linked to the 'Gemütlichkeit' (coziness/leisurely pace) of Vienna's coffee house culture. Used in the context of precision and the long-term stability that the Swiss economy is known for. Because of its biblical roots, this phrase is a point of connection for German speakers with people from many other cultures.
Use it for Empathy
This is the perfect phrase to use when you don't know what else to say to someone going through a hard time. It sounds profound without being preachy.
Grammar Trap
Remember: it's 'seine Zeit', not 'ihre Zeit'. The pronoun looks at 'Alles', not 'Zeit'.
Meaning
Suggest that some things cannot be rushed.
Use it for Empathy
This is the perfect phrase to use when you don't know what else to say to someone going through a hard time. It sounds profound without being preachy.
Grammar Trap
Remember: it's 'seine Zeit', not 'ihre Zeit'. The pronoun looks at 'Alles', not 'Zeit'.
The 'Oma' Factor
This phrase is very common among older generations. Using it correctly will make you sound very culturally integrated.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing possessive pronoun.
Ich weiß, du willst schnell fertig werden, aber alles hat ______ Zeit.
The pronoun must be 'seine' to agree with the neuter subject 'Alles'.
Which situation is the best fit for this phrase?
Wann sagt man 'Alles hat seine Zeit'?
The phrase is used to encourage patience, not to excuse lateness or express urgency.
Match the German phrase to its English equivalent.
Match the pairs:
These are the most accurate idiomatic translations.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesIch weiß, du willst schnell fertig werden, aber alles hat ______ Zeit.
The pronoun must be 'seine' to agree with the neuter subject 'Alles'.
Wann sagt man 'Alles hat seine Zeit'?
The phrase is used to encourage patience, not to excuse lateness or express urgency.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the most accurate idiomatic translations.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsWhile it has biblical origins, it is used in a completely secular way today. Most Germans don't even think of the Bible when they say it.
Yes, but only in a strategic or supportive context. Don't use it to explain why you missed a deadline!
Because 'seine' refers back to 'Alles' (neuter). In German, possessive pronouns agree with the gender of the possessor.
Both are correct. 'Alles hat seine Zeit' is the full proverb. 'Alles zu seiner Zeit' is a common shortened version meaning 'Everything in its own time'.
Related Phrases
Alles zu seiner Zeit
similarEverything at its time.
Kommt Zeit, kommt Rat
similarWith time comes a solution.
Zeit heilt alle Wunden
specialized formTime heals all wounds.
Zeit ist Geld
contrastTime is money.
