The idiom “around the clock” describes something that is continuous, happening day and night without stopping. As an adjective, it emphasizes that an activity, service, or care is provided constantly, with no breaks. This expression is commonly used in contexts where uninterrupted attention or availability is necessary, such as healthcare, news broadcasting, or certain business operations.
In this article, we will define “around-the-clock,” give examples of how to use it as an adjective, and explore scenarios where this idiom is often applied.
What does “around the clock” mean?
“Around-the-clock” as an adjective means that something is provided or occurring without interruption, 24 hours a day. It implies that the service or activity does not stop and is available at any hour, day or night.
Meaning:
- Constant, ongoing, without interruption.
- Available all day and night.
- Used as an adjective to describe services or activities that are continuously accessible.
Examples of “Around-the-clock” in sentences
In healthcare contexts:
“Grandfather required around-the-clock care to monitor his health and provide support at any hour.”
In news broadcasting:
“I tuned into the around-the-clock news station to stay updated on the latest developments.”
In business services:
“The tech support team provides around-the-clock assistance for customers experiencing issues with their software.”
In security services:
“The facility has around-the-clock surveillance to ensure the safety and security of its contents.”
How to use “Around-the-clock” as an adjective in conversation
The term “around-the-clock” is useful for describing services, care, or activities that are essential and require non-stop attention. It is often used in healthcare, security, and customer support contexts.
In describing continuous care:
“After his surgery, he needed around-the-clock monitoring to ensure there were no complications.”
In describing news or information services:
“The around-the-clock news station kept viewers informed about the hurricane as it approached the coast.”
In describing emergency response or assistance:
“Our helpline provides around-the-clock support for anyone facing a crisis.”
Why “Around-the-clock” conveys reliability and dedication
“Around-the-clock” suggests a high level of reliability and dedication. When a service or care is described as “around-the-clock,” it implies that it is both essential and dependable, ensuring continuous support without interruption. It is commonly associated with professional services or care that cannot afford any breaks due to their importance.
Conclusion
“Around-the-clock” is a valuable adjective that conveys the idea of constant, non-stop service or care. Whether it’s used to describe medical care, news broadcasting, or emergency support, this phrase highlights the unwavering dedication and reliability involved in maintaining 24/7 availability.
