短语 the sands of time 是表达时间 time 的另一个说法。这个说法更有诗意，常被用在谈论时间流逝的语境中。

例句

"I am always ready to score the winning goal," said the footballer, dismissing those who said the sands of time are running out on his long career.

Plan for your retirement. The sands of time catch up with everyone.

请注意

短语 to draw a line in the sand 的意思是事先制定底线。

Mary drew a line in the sand. If her son didn't do his homework on Monday, he would have to stay at home for a month.