Timer counts down.

Meaning: This means that the timer is saying numbers in order, typically to determine a total, toward a lower place or level.

Choice of Words: Timer is a noun that refers to a device that measures and displays the passage of time. Counts is a verb that means to say numbers in order, typically to determine a total. Down is a preposition that means toward a lower place or level.

Alternative Expressions

The timer is ticking away.

Meaning: This means the timer is making a sound as it gets closer to the end of the time it has to measure.

Choice of Words: Timer is a device that measures time. Ticking means making a small, repeated sound. Away means to create distance from the current location or to move from the speaker. When you put them together, "The timer is ticking away" means the timer is making a sound as the time decreases.

Time is running out.

Meaning: This means the time is getting closer to the end.

Choice of Words: Time is a measure of how long something lasts. Running means to move quickly. Out means to leave or escape. When you put them together, "Time is running out" means the time is decreasing quickly.

Related Expressions