Prepositions In Time Phrases
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Prepositions In Time Phrases | English A1 Level (Beginner / Elementary)
26 Word
In
Definition: A preposition used to indicate location or position within something.
- The cat is in the box.
- She lives in a small town.
- Put the apples in the basket.
On
Definition: a preposition indicating position or surface contact
- The book is on the table.
- She put her phone on the desk.
- Understanding how to use "on" correctly is important for clear sentences.
At
Definition: A preposition used to indicate a specific location or time.
- We will meet at the park.
- The dog is sitting at the door.
- She arrived at school early today.
By
Definition: A preposition used to indicate the means of achieving something or the agent performing an action.
- The book was written by a famous author.
- He traveled by train to the city.
- Understanding the use of "by" enhances sentence clarity.
For
Definition: A preposition used to indicate purpose, direction, or benefit.
- This gift is for you.
- She studies hard for good grades.
- He went for a walk in the park.
After
Definition: Following in time or place; later than.
- We will go for ice cream after lunch.
- She likes to read after finishing her homework.
- He felt tired after the long day.
Before
Definition: At an earlier time; prior to something occurring.
- I wash my hands before eating.
- We met before the movie started.
- He always arrives at school before the bell rings.
Until
Definition: up to the time that something happens
- We will wait until the bus arrives.
- She studied until late at night for the exam.
- Understanding "until" helps in discussing time.
During
Definition: A preposition used to indicate a time period in which something happens.
- We studied during the summer to prepare for exams.
- During the meeting, everyone shared their ideas.
- He fell asleep during the movie.
From
Definition: Indicating the source or starting point of something.
- He comes from a small town.
- The gift is from my grandmother.
- She traveled from Paris to London.
To
Definition: A preposition used to indicate direction, place, or purpose.
- She is going to the store to buy groceries.
- He gave the book to his friend.
- They walked to the park to enjoy the weather.
Between
Definition: In the space separating two objects or points.
- The cat is sitting between the two chairs.
- She can choose between the red and blue dress.
- There is a fence between the two houses.
Within
Definition: Inside or contained by something.
- The answers lie within the text.
- She found her keys within the drawer.
- Understanding what lies within can lead to self-discovery.
About
Definition: Concerning or relating to something.
- We talked about our favorite books in class.
- She is excited about her upcoming trip.
- The report is about climate change and its effects.
Around
Definition: In a circular direction or nearby; approximately.
- They walked around the park to enjoy the scenery.
- He looked around to find his lost backpack.
- The project will be completed in around two weeks.
Through
Definition: from one side to the other; in one end and out the other
- She walked through the park on her way to school.
- The tunnel goes through the mountain.
- He looked through the window to see the rain.
Afterward
Definition: At a later time; afterwards.
- We went to the movies and afterward had dinner.
- He studied hard and afterward felt confident.
- They played games and afterward watched a show.
Now
Definition: At the present time; currently.
- I am studying now.
- She is working on her project now.
- They want to leave now before it gets dark.
Then
Definition: At that time; used to indicate a sequence in time.
- We went to the park, and then we had ice cream.
- He finished his homework, and then he played video games.
- I will study now, and then I’ll watch a movie.
Soon
Definition: In a short time; not long from now.
- We will be leaving for the trip soon.
- He hopes to finish his homework soon.
- The movie will start soon, so let's hurry.
Early
Definition: Occurring before the expected time; happening soon after a start.
- She arrived early for the meeting to prepare.
- The early bird gets the worm, as the saying goes.
- He prefers to wake up early in the morning.
Later
Definition: An adverb meaning "after a period of time."
- I will finish my homework later this evening.
- We can play outside later when it's sunny.
- She called me later to discuss the project.
Always
Definition: At all times; on every occasion.
- I always brush my teeth in the morning.
- She always helps her friends.
- They are always happy to see each other.
Sometimes
Definition: Occasionally; not always.
- Sometimes I like to read books in the park.
- She feels tired sometimes after long days.
- We go to the beach sometimes during summer.
Often
Definition: Frequently; many times.
- I often go for a walk after dinner.
- She often reads before going to bed.
- They meet often to discuss their project.
Never
Definition: Not at any time; not ever.
- I have never been to another country.
- He will never forget his first day of school.
- She never likes to eat vegetables.
Prepositions In Time Phrases | English A2 Level (Pre-Intermediate)
1 Word
Over
Definition: In excess or beyond; also used to indicate position above.
- He placed the blanket over the bed.
- They went over the rules before starting the game.
- Understanding over can clarify meaning in various contexts.
Prepositions In Time Phrases | English B1 Level (Intermediate)
6 Word
Ago
Definition: In the past; a specific time in the past.
- We visited the museum a week ago.
- She moved here two years ago.
- He graduated from college long ago.
Afterwards
Definition: Similar to afterward; at a later time.
- We can discuss it afterwards.
- She finished her homework and afterwards went out.
- Afterwards, they enjoyed a picnic in the park.
Earlier
Definition: At a time before the present or before a specified time.
- I woke up earlier than usual today.
- She finished her homework earlier than expected.
- He arrived earlier for the meeting.
Late
Definition: Arriving after the expected or scheduled time.
- She was late to class because of traffic.
- He often stays up late to finish his homework.
- Being late for appointments can be frustrating.
Usually
Definition: Most of the time; in most cases.
- I usually go to bed at 10 PM.
- She usually eats cereal for breakfast.
- Understanding the word usually helps with daily routines.
Rarely
Definition: Not often; infrequently.
- She rarely eats dessert during the week.
- He rarely goes to the movies.
- They rarely see each other since they moved.
Prepositions In Time Phrases | English B2 Level (Upper Intermediate)
11 Word
Since
Definition: used to refer to a time in the past until now
- She has lived here since 2010.
- Since it was raining, they stayed inside.
- He hasn't seen her since last summer.
Throughout
Definition: In every part of a place or during the entire time of an event.
- The festival takes place throughout the city.
- She traveled throughout Europe last summer.
- The library is open throughout the year.
Prior
Definition: existing before something else
- She had prior experience in the field.
- It’s important to review prior knowledge before learning.
- He checked his prior notes for reference.
Immediately
Definition: Without delay; at once.
- She called him immediately after the news.
- Please respond immediately to the invitation.
- He left the room immediately after the argument.
Occasionally
Definition: Sometimes, but not often.
- We occasionally go to the movies on weekends.
- He occasionally helps his neighbor with chores.
- She occasionally visits her grandparents.
Frequently
Definition: Occurring often; happening many times.
- She frequently visits the library to study.
- They go to the park frequently on weekends.
- Frequent practice improves language skills.
Regularly
Definition: Occurring at fixed intervals; often.
- She exercises regularly to stay healthy.
- They meet regularly to discuss their projects.
- Understanding the importance of doing things regularly promotes discipline.
Finally
Definition: At last; after a long time; used to indicate the end of a wait.
- Finally, the rain stopped after several days.
- He finally finished his homework.
- She was happy to finally see her friends again.
Initially
Definition: At the beginning; originally.
- Initially, she found the project challenging but later enjoyed it.
- He initially thought the movie would be boring.
- Initially, the team faced difficulties but overcame them.
Previously
Definition: At an earlier time; before now.
- She had previously visited the museum before the trip.
- Previously, he worked at a different company.
- Understanding previously helps connect past experiences with current situations.
Simultaneously
Definition: At the same time; occurring together.
- They spoke simultaneously, creating confusion.
- She can listen and write simultaneously.
- The two events happened simultaneously in the city.
Prepositions In Time Phrases | English C1 Level (Advanced)
17 Word
Towards
Definition: In the direction of; in relation to something.
- She walked towards the park after school.
- His actions were towards helping the community.
- Understanding the meaning of "towards" can clarify intentions.
Among
Definition: In the middle of or surrounded by; within a group.
- She was among friends at the party.
- The secret was shared among close family members.
- He felt comfortable among his classmates.
Subsequently
Definition: Afterward; at a later time.
- He graduated and subsequently started his career.
- They moved to a new city and subsequently found jobs.
- She studied hard and subsequently passed the exam.
Concurrently
Definition: Happening at the same time; simultaneously.
- They worked on two projects concurrently.
- The classes run concurrently at the university.
- The events will happen concurrently this weekend.
Ultimately
Definition: In the end; finally; at last.
- Ultimately, they decided to go on the trip.
- She knew that ultimately, hard work pays off.
- Understanding ultimately helps in summarizing conclusions.
Notwithstanding
Definition: In spite of; despite.
- Notwithstanding the rain, the event continued.
- She succeeded, notwithstanding the challenges.
- Notwithstanding his efforts, he didn't pass the test.
Regarding
Definition: Concerning; about something.
- I have a question regarding the homework assignment.
- The email was regarding the upcoming school event.
- Regarding your application, we will inform you soon.
Concerning
Definition: About or related to something; regarding.
- The report concerning the environment was alarming.
- There are some concerning trends in the data.
- She asked questions concerning the project timeline.
Following
Definition: the act of coming after or the group of people who support someone
- The following of the new artist grew quickly on social media.
- He has a large following of fans who love his music.
- The following events will be exciting for everyone.
Alongside
Definition: Next to; in company with.
- She walked alongside her friend.
- He worked alongside his colleagues on the project.
- Alongside studying, he also worked part-time.
Prior To
Definition: before a particular time or event
- Prior to the meeting, he prepared his notes.
- She was nervous prior to the exam.
- The event was scheduled prior to the holiday.
Subsequent To
Definition: Following in time or order; after.
- Subsequent to the meeting, they made a decision.
- She felt more confident subsequent to her training.
- The report was released subsequent to the investigation.
Up To
Definition: As far as; until; also used to indicate responsibility.
- You can stay up to three hours at the party.
- It’s up to you to decide what to do next.
- The project is up to the team to complete on time.
As Of
Definition: At a particular time; currently.
- As of now, the project is on schedule.
- As of last week, we completed phase one.
- As of today, all students are required to wear masks.
Along With
Definition: In addition to; together with.
- She brought cookies along with the drinks.
- He studied along with his friends.
- Along with the cake, they served ice cream.
Leading Up To
Definition: The time or events that occur before something.
- The events leading up to the festival were exciting.
- She prepared for the exam by studying leading up to it.
- The leading up to the game created a lot of anticipation.
Up Until
Definition: Until a specific point in time.
- Up until last week, she was working at the store.
- He studied up until the exam started.
- They had fun up until the sun went down.
Prepositions In Time Phrases | English C2 Level (Proficiency / Mastery)
13 Word
Past
Definition: The time before now; something that has already happened.
- He learned from his past mistakes.
- She often talks about her past experiences.
- The past is important for understanding history.
Beyond
Definition: At or to a greater distance; further than something else.
- The mountains extend beyond the horizon.
- She wants to travel beyond her hometown to explore.
- Understanding beyond helps in grasping larger concepts.
Across
Definition: In a position or direction from one side to another; from one side of something to the other.
- The bridge goes across the river.
- She walked across the street to get to school.
- Understanding "across" helps with spatial awareness.
In The Course Of
Definition: During a specific period of time.
- In the course of the meeting, many ideas were shared.
- They learned a lot in the course of their studies.
- In the course of the year, we made great progress.
At The Outset
Definition: at the beginning of something
- At the outset, they outlined their goals.
- She explained the plan at the outset of the meeting.
- At the outset, it seemed like a simple task.
In The Meantime
Definition: During the time until something happens.
- In the meantime, let’s review our plans.
- They will start the project, and in the meantime, gather materials.
- In the meantime, focus on your studies.
In The Interim
Definition: In the meantime; temporarily.
- In the interim, we will use a different plan.
- She took charge in the interim while he was away.
- In the interim, keep practicing your skills.
At The Same Time
Definition: simultaneously; during the same period
- They both spoke at the same time, causing confusion.
- At the same time, she was studying and working.
- You can eat and watch TV at the same time.
At A Later Date
Definition: referring to a time in the future
- We will discuss the project at a later date.
- The meeting was postponed to be held at a later date.
- You can submit your assignment at a later date if needed.
In Advance
Definition: Before a particular time; beforehand.
- Please let me know in advance if you can attend.
- He bought tickets in advance for the concert.
- In advance, she prepared her presentation.
In Due Course
Definition: At the appropriate time; eventually.
- You will receive your results in due course.
- The project will be completed in due course.
- In due course, we will announce the winner.
In Retrospect
Definition: Looking back at a past event with a new perspective.
- In retrospect, I should have studied harder.
- He felt, in retrospect, that he made the right choice.
- In retrospect, the trip was a great experience.
In The Long Run
Definition: Over a long period; ultimately.
- In the long run, education pays off.
- She believes that hard work will benefit her in the long run.
- In the long run, we will see positive results.
The word usage examples above have been gathered from various sources to reflect current and historical usage of the word . They do not represent the opinions of TranslateEN.com.
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