Prepositions of time are words that help specify when something happens by relating a noun or pronoun to time. Understanding these prepositions helps in making your communication more precise regarding time. Remember, the choice between them can sometimes be subtle, influenced by context or regional variations in English usage.
Here are some common prepositions of time and how they are used:
● At: Used for precise times.
Example: The meeting is at 3 pm.
● On: Used for days and dates.
Examples: We have a picnic on Saturday. / My birthday is on June 1st.
● In: Used for months, years, centuries, and longer periods of time, as well as for parts of the day.
Examples: She was born in 1990. / I like to read in the evening.
● During: Refers to something happening within a particular time frame or event.
Example: He fell asleep during the movie.
● For: Indicates the duration of time something lasts.
Example: I waited for two hours.
● Since: Points to the start of a period continuing until now.
Example: I’ve been here since noon.
● By: Indicates a deadline or the latest time something will happen.
Example: Please finish the report by Friday.
● From…to/until: Specifies the start and end of a time period.
Examples: The store is open from 9 am to 6 pm. / She’ll be on vacation from Monday until the following Sunday.
● Before and After: Indicate times relative to another event or time.
Examples: “You should arrive before the show starts.” / We’ll discuss it after the meeting.
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