Definition for "on the dime"

I've never seen it used that way. Usually we say something can "turn on a dime" or it "stops on a dime" meaning quickly and with precision.

As GG says, to stop on a dime, to turn on a dime -- in a very small amount of space.
Also, "It's your dime" -- You called me; I didn't call you; so say whatever you want. More generally, it's your decision; you are the one paying.

to show up on the dime makes no sense to me.

CJ

I suspect it still has to do with precision. I the phrase, "on the dime" as well when illustrating precision, no heistatio. I suspect that phrase you quoted partially means that there was an agreement that was not met on a timely basis.

it means the they where not prompt.

on the dime can mean being cheap or broke

It seems to me that 'on the dime' in this context is emphasizing the exactness of showing up on time, but it sounds awkward because it's emphasizing what didn't happen. It's as awkward as saying "The poor man couldn't buy any food to eat because he didn't have money coming out his ears. "

maybe

I agree with CJ. "To show up on the dime" is not used, as far as I know.

On the other hand, "right on the money" is used almost without restriction in cases like this - for reasons unknown to me.

This was Pernickety's quote:
a supplier contracted for cement and then didn't show up on the dime.

Alas, he's not around anymore.

It means he did not show up at the time that was scheduled; He was late.

It does not apply in the context of this forum. My response to your question certainly was 2 years late, but since we did not have an appointment or some reason to expect by habit that someone would show up on a certain day with an answer for you, "on the dime" does not apply. A better example: Oscar was one

Anonymous Felix woke up at 5:45 am every day on the dime.

Never heard it!

"On the

Avangi

Anonymous Felix woke up at 5:45 am every day on the dime.

Never heard it! ...

Me neither.

CJ