20.Lesson 20 part 4 – Prepositions-01-01

Prepositions can introduce time phrases. For example, we use at with specific times (at 6:45 p.m.), and we use since to tell the beginning of a time period (since 1992).

Here are some common prepositions of time.

after

between

for

on

to

at

by

from

past

till

before

during

in

since

until

 

We use for with a general period of time and we use during with the name of a period of time. We use for to answer the question How long? and we use during to answer the question When?

  • Incorrect:       They visited France during two weeks.
  • Correct:         They visited France for two weeks.
  • Correct:         They visited France during the summer.

Prepositions of Length of Time

The prepositions for, since, and during indicate a period of time.

FOR                    Use with a quantity, or period, of time.

SINCE                 Use with the exact beginning of a period of time.

DURING              Use with the name of a period of time.

In English, “a half” comes before the time word. We say “five and a half hours,” not “five hours and a half.