Also used: millions of times
While a million times has a literal meaning of ‘by a factor of one million’ it is most often used figuratively in a completely exaggerated way.
Meaning of Idiom ‘A Million Times’
A million times is a phrase used to mean, many many times, so many that they cannot be counted; a lot of times; an untold number of times; a ridiculously large number.
The idiom ‘a million times’ often refers to something being repetitive or extreme. The idiom is similar to other idioms that exaggeratedly use imaginary large numbers for emphasis. A billion times might be used instead of a million times. Sometimes, the ‘large number’ is made up, such as bazillion or gazillion.
Any of these numbers can be used alone to express a very large amount. Example: “I don’t have a million friends willing to help me. I have to get it done by myself.”
See also the similar idiom umpteen.
Sentence Examples
“If I’ve told you once, I’ve told you a million times: don’t leave your dirty laundry all over the house!”
“I’ve told you a million times to turn off the lights before you leave a room.”
“I can fix this, no problem! I’ve done it a million times.”
“He thinks he’s so sophisticated because he’s been to Europe a million times. But he was just a kid tagging alone with his rich parents.”
“He seemed so helpless. Like a little lost puppy, and my heart just went out to him.” “Yeah, we know. You’ve told us this story a million times.” — Back to the Future (1985)
“When I was comin’ down here, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” came on. I ain’t heard that song since it was big. But when it was big, I must’ve heard it a million-trillion f*** times.” — Reservoir Dogs (1992)
“This is so surreal, I mean. You probably get this all the time,well, maybe not lately, but I’m such a huge fan of yours. I’ve seen everyone of your movies a million times.” — Zombieland (2009)
“I’ve been by this place a million times, never come in.” — Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)
“Just want you to know if Ron does not show up, l am ready to go on.” “You and l have had this discussion a million times. There’s never been a woman anchor.” — Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
Origin
A million has been used in this way since the 1800s.