To lose track of time
= to forget the time and sometimes be late for something because of it. This is usually because you are so busy or involved in what you are currently doing.
- Sorry I’m late! I completely lost track of time.
- You should remind Sally to be punctual, she always loses track of time.
Lose = to not be able to find something
Track = a course (or path) taken by something (in this example)
Caught (the past tense of catch) = to grab and retain something elusive
To Lose track of Time is similar to…
To get caught up (in something)
= when something holds your attention which causes you to be late
- They’re going to be late, they got caught up at work.
- Can we change our dinner reservation for later? I got caught up in cleaning!
When have you lost track of time? Why?
When have you got caught up in something? Was it good or bad?
