Time by Ne-Yo is a reflective R&B song that delves into the themes of love, regret, and the preciousness of time. Ne-Yo expresses a deep sense of remorse for not valuing the time spent with a significant other, and he acknowledges the pain caused by neglect and the failure to prioritize a relationship. The track is imbued with a yearning to turn back the clock and make amends. Key poignant moments in the song include Ne-Yo's heartfelt admission of his mistakes and his plea for a second chance to cherish the time that he previously took for granted.