Understanding prepositions of time is crucial for mastering English. These small yet powerful words help you indicate when something happens. They can be tricky because they often don’t have direct translations in other languages, making them a common stumbling block for learners. This article will delve into the most frequently used prepositions of time, providing examples and explanations to help you use them correctly.
Common Prepositions of Time
Prepositions of time primarily include: in, on, at, by, during, for, since, and until. Each of these prepositions has specific rules and contexts in which it is used.
In
The preposition in is used for longer periods of time such as months, years, decades, centuries, and seasons. It can also be used to refer to parts of the day.
– **Months**: I was born in May.
– **Years**: She graduated in 2010.
– **Decades**: A lot changed in the 1990s.
– **Centuries**: The building was constructed in the 18th century.
– **Seasons**: We often go hiking in summer.
– **Parts of the day**: He likes to read in the morning.
On
The preposition on is used for specific days and dates, as well as for days of the week and holidays with the word “day.”
– **Specific days**: The meeting is on Monday.
– **Dates**: My birthday is on the 15th of June.
– **Days of the week**: We have classes on Fridays.
– **Holidays with “day”**: We celebrate on Christmas Day.
At
The preposition at is used for precise times, moments, and some special expressions.
– **Precise times**: The train arrives at 7:30 PM.
– **Moments**: The stars are beautiful at night.
– **Special expressions**: I will see you at lunchtime / at midnight / at dawn.
By
The preposition by indicates a specific point in time, showing a deadline or the latest possible time for something to happen.
– **Deadlines**: Please submit your report by Friday.
– **Latest possible time**: He should be here by now.
During
The preposition during is used to indicate a period or range of time in which something happens.
– **Periods of time**: The concert was amazing during the summer festival.
– **Ranges of time**: She stayed with us during the holidays.
For
The preposition for is used to indicate a duration of time.
– **Duration**: He has been studying English for two years.
– **Duration in the past or future**: They will travel for three weeks.
Since
The preposition since is used to indicate the starting point of an action or event that continues up to the present moment.
– **Starting point**: She has been living here since 2015.
– **Continuing action**: He has been working out since this morning.
Until
The preposition until (or till) is used to indicate the end point of a period of time.
– **End point**: The shop is open until 9 PM.
– **Duration up to a point**: We stayed up until midnight.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Understanding the basic rules is important, but many learners still make common mistakes when using prepositions of time. Here are some typical errors and tips on how to avoid them.
Confusing “in” and “on”
A frequent mistake is using “in” instead of “on” (or vice versa) for days and dates. Remember that “in” is used for longer periods like months and years, while “on” is used for specific days and dates.
– Incorrect: My birthday is in 15th June.
– Correct: My birthday is on 15th June.
Using “at” instead of “in” for parts of the day
Another common error is using “at” instead of “in” when referring to parts of the day.
– Incorrect: He goes jogging at the morning.
– Correct: He goes jogging in the morning.
Misusing “by” and “until”
Learners often confuse “by” and “until.” “By” indicates a deadline, whereas “until” indicates the end of a period.
– Incorrect: I will finish the project until Friday.
– Correct: I will finish the project by Friday.
– Incorrect: The event lasts by 9 PM.
– Correct: The event lasts until 9 PM.
Exercises to Practice Prepositions of Time
Practicing the use of prepositions of time through exercises can help solidify your understanding. Here are a few exercises to try.
Fill in the Blanks
Complete the sentences with the correct prepositions of time (in, on, at, by, during, for, since, until):
1. I have lived here _______ 2010.
2. She will arrive _______ 3 PM.
3. The store is open _______ the weekends.
4. He studied _______ three hours.
5. The movie starts _______ 7 PM.
6. We met _______ the morning.
7. They traveled _______ the summer.
8. Please submit your assignment _______ Friday.
Multiple Choice
Choose the correct preposition of time to complete the sentences:
1. We went to the park (in, on, at) Saturday.
2. She has been working here (since, for, during) five years.
3. The meeting is scheduled (in, on, at) 2 PM.
4. He was born (in, on, at) 1995.
5. We will wait (by, until, during) 6 PM.
Answers to Exercises
Fill in the Blanks
1. I have lived here since 2010.
2. She will arrive at 3 PM.
3. The store is open on the weekends.
4. He studied for three hours.
5. The movie starts at 7 PM.
6. We met in the morning.
7. They traveled during the summer.
8. Please submit your assignment by Friday.
Multiple Choice
1. We went to the park on Saturday.
2. She has been working here for five years.
3. The meeting is scheduled at 2 PM.
4. He was born in 1995.
5. We will wait until 6 PM.
Additional Tips for Mastery
Here are a few additional tips to help you master prepositions of time:
Context Matters
Always consider the context in which you are using the preposition. For example, “in the morning” is a part of the day, whereas “at 7 AM” is a specific time.
Practice Regularly
Regular practice will help reinforce your understanding and usage of prepositions of time. Try to incorporate these prepositions into your daily conversations and written exercises.
Use Resources
There are many resources available to help you practice prepositions of time, including grammar books, online exercises, and language learning apps. Utilize these resources to get additional practice and feedback.
Seek Feedback
Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from teachers, language exchange partners, or native speakers. They can provide valuable insights and help you correct any mistakes.
Conclusion
Prepositions of time are essential for clear and accurate communication in English. By understanding the rules and practicing regularly, you can master their usage and improve your overall language skills. Remember to pay attention to context, avoid common mistakes, and seek feedback to continue progressing in your language learning journey.
