On borrowed time
"On borrowed time" describes a situation where someone or something continues to exist beyond an expected end, often due to a fortunate event or reprieve. It can refer to individuals surviving against odds or businesses avoiding failure temporarily. The phrase emphasizes that this extended period is temporary and often unexpected, like a bonus chance to prolong an activity or existence. Whether in a personal, business, or competitive context, living on borrowed time suggests the final outcome is merely postponed, not avoided.