Not before time

[Mosteque]

Test No. incompl/advan-14 "Time Expressions (2)", question 10

The parcel eventually arrived six weeks later, and not ......... time!

(a) after
(b) before
(c) since
(d) for

Test No. incompl/advan-14 "Time Expressions (2)", answer 10

The parcel eventually arrived six weeks later, and not before time!

Correct answer: (b) before

Your answer was: incorrect
The parcel eventually arrived six weeks later, and not for time!
_________________________

What does 'before time' mean in this sentence?? Is it used to stress that ' no sooner than aforementioned time'??

[Alan]

This expression is used in a sarcastic way to express the idea that something should have happened much sooner. If someone arrives late, you could make that comment if you wanted to express your irritation at their lateness.
_________________
English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Read the Signs...