Meaning
To be very punctual or consistent.
Cultural Background
Punctuality is highly valued in professional settings, and this phrase is a common way to praise it. While social time can be flexible, this phrase is used to highlight someone who is exceptionally reliable. Used frequently in urban centers like Buenos Aires to describe efficient public transport or work habits. Used to compliment someone who is organized and keeps their word.
Gender Matters
Remember that 'reloj' is masculine, so always use 'un' (not 'una').
Use with 'funcionar'
Using 'funcionar como un reloj' is a great way to sound more natural when talking about objects.
Meaning
To be very punctual or consistent.
Gender Matters
Remember that 'reloj' is masculine, so always use 'un' (not 'una').
Use with 'funcionar'
Using 'funcionar como un reloj' is a great way to sound more natural when talking about objects.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
Mi rutina funciona como un ______.
The idiom is 'como un reloj'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct usage.
Requires the article 'un' and singular noun.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Llegaste tarde? B: No, llegué ______.
The context is punctuality.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You want to say your car is fixed and perfect.
Used for machines working perfectly.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMi rutina funciona como un ______.
The idiom is 'como un reloj'.
Choose the correct usage.
Requires the article 'un' and singular noun.
A: ¿Llegaste tarde? B: No, llegué ______.
The context is punctuality.
You want to say your car is fixed and perfect.
Used for machines working perfectly.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, it is a great way to compliment someone's punctuality.
No, it is a positive idiom.
The idiom is fixed, you cannot change 'reloj' to another object.
Related Phrases
En punto
synonymExactly on time
Ser puntual
similarTo be punctual
Ir sobre ruedas
similarTo go smoothly
A tiempo
similarOn time