When learning English, one of the key areas that often confounds learners is the correct use of prepositions of time. These small but mighty words, such as “in,” “on,” and “at,” are essential for constructing sentences that accurately convey when events occur. Mastery of prepositions of time can significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in English. In this article, we will explore the most commonly used prepositions of time and provide detailed explanations, examples, and tips on how to use them correctly.
Understanding Prepositions of Time
Prepositions of time are used to describe when something happens. They help to answer questions like “When?” and “How long?” While English has many prepositions of time, the most commonly used are “in,” “on,” and “at.” Each of these prepositions has specific rules and contexts in which it is used.
Using “In” for Periods of Time
The preposition “in” is used for longer periods of time such as months, years, centuries, and long periods.
1. **Months**:
– Example: “I was born in July.”
– Explanation: “July” is a month, so we use “in.”
2. **Years**:
– Example: “She graduated in 2010.”
– Explanation: “2010” is a year, making “in” the appropriate preposition.
3. **Centuries**:
– Example: “This building was constructed in the 18th century.”
– Explanation: “18th century” is a long period, so we use “in.”
4. **Long periods**:
– Example: “We will achieve our goals in the future.”
– Explanation: “The future” refers to an indefinite long period, thus requiring “in.”
Using “On” for Specific Days and Dates
The preposition “on” is used for days and dates.
1. **Days of the week**:
– Example: “I have a meeting on Monday.”
– Explanation: “Monday” is a specific day of the week, so “on” is used.
2. **Dates**:
– Example: “Her birthday is on December 25th.”
– Explanation: “December 25th” is a specific date, so “on” is the correct preposition.
3. **Specific days with descriptors**:
– Example: “The event is on a sunny day.”
– Explanation: When describing specific days with adjectives, “on” is used.
Using “At” for Precise Times
The preposition “at” is used for precise times, including times of day and specific points in time.
1. **Exact times**:
– Example: “The train arrives at 3:00 PM.”
– Explanation: “3:00 PM” is an exact time, so “at” is used.
2. **Times of the day**:
– Example: “We often go for a walk at night.”
– Explanation: “Night” is a specific time of the day, thus requiring “at.”
3. **Specific points in time**:
– Example: “Let’s meet at lunchtime.”
– Explanation: “Lunchtime” is a specific point in time, so “at” is used.
Other Prepositions of Time
While “in,” “on,” and “at” are the most commonly used prepositions of time, there are several others that are equally important for specific contexts.
Using “For” to Indicate Duration
The preposition “for” is used to indicate the length of time an action or event lasts.
– Example: “They have lived here for ten years.”
– Explanation: “Ten years” indicates the duration of time they have lived in the location, so “for” is used.
Using “Since” to Indicate Starting Point
The preposition “since” is used to indicate the starting point of an action or event that continues up to the present.
– Example: “She has been studying English since 2015.”
– Explanation: “2015” is the starting point of her studying, thus “since” is appropriate.
Using “By” to Indicate a Deadline
The preposition “by” is used to indicate a deadline or the latest time by which something should happen.
– Example: “Please submit your report by Friday.”
– Explanation: “Friday” is the deadline for the submission, so “by” is used.
Using “Until” to Indicate End Point
The preposition “until” (or its informal form “’til”) is used to indicate the end point of a period of time.
– Example: “The store is open until 9 PM.”
– Explanation: “9 PM” is the end point of the store’s operating hours, so “until” is appropriate.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Learning prepositions of time can be tricky, and mistakes are common. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them.
Mixing Up “In,” “On,” and “At”
One of the most frequent mistakes is using “in,” “on,” and “at” interchangeably when they are not.
– Incorrect: “I will see you in Monday.”
– Correct: “I will see you on Monday.”
– Tip: Remember that “on” is for specific days and dates, “in” is for longer periods, and “at” is for exact times.
Using “Since” and “For” Incorrectly
Another common error is confusing “since” and “for.”
– Incorrect: “I have been waiting since three hours.”
– Correct: “I have been waiting for three hours.”
– Tip: Use “for” to indicate duration and “since” to indicate the starting point.
Incorrect Use of “By” and “Until”
Mixing up “by” and “until” can also lead to confusion.
– Incorrect: “Complete the task until Friday.”
– Correct: “Complete the task by Friday.”
– Tip: Use “by” for deadlines and “until” to indicate the end point of a period.
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to master prepositions of time is through practice. Here are some exercises to help reinforce your understanding.
Fill in the Blanks
1. I will call you ___ the evening.
2. She has been working here ___ 2018.
3. The meeting is scheduled ___ Monday.
4. They will arrive ___ 5 PM.
5. We have lived here ___ ten years.
Answers
1. in
2. since
3. on
4. at
5. for
Sentence Correction
Correct the following sentences:
1. The concert starts in 8 PM.
2. He was born on 1990.
3. They have been friends for their childhood.
4. I will finish the project until Friday.
5. She has been studying French since two years.
Answers
1. The concert starts at 8 PM.
2. He was born in 1990.
3. They have been friends since their childhood.
4. I will finish the project by Friday.
5. She has been studying French for two years.
Conclusion
Mastering prepositions of time is crucial for anyone learning English. These small words play a significant role in conveying accurate information about when events occur. By understanding the specific contexts in which to use “in,” “on,” “at,” “for,” “since,” “by,” and “until,” you can enhance your communication skills and avoid common mistakes. Remember, practice is key, so keep using these prepositions in your writing and speaking to become more proficient. Happy learning!
