Prepositions of Time in English

As a non-native English speaker, prepositions of time can be confusing. In this reference, you will learn what they are, find handy examples of prepositions of time in sentences, and learn how to use them in grammar. Let's start learning!

What is a Preposition of Time?

A preposition of time is a word that helps to indicate when something happened or will happen.

Prepositions of time are used to describe the relationship between an event and a specific point in time. Common prepositions of time include:

• In: used to describe an event that will happen in the future or a period of time. Example: I will go to the gym in the afternoon.
• On: used to describe an event that will happen on a specific date or day. Example: I have a meeting on Monday.
• At: used to describe an event that will happen at a specific time. Example: We will meet at 8 pm.

Prepositions of Time Examples in Sentences

Here are some examples of prepositions of time in sentences:

• I will meet you in 30 minutes.
• The party is on Friday.
• I wake up at 6 am every day.
• The concert starts at 8 pm.
• She will arrive in May.

Using Time Prepositions in Grammar

Using prepositions of time in grammar can be challenging. However, with practice, you can master it. Tips on how to use prepositions of time in grammar:

• Use "in" with months, years, seasons, and long periods of time. Example: I will visit my grandparents in the summer.
• Use "on" with specific days and dates. Example: Our anniversary is on the 14th of February.
• Use "at" with specific times. Example: The movie starts at 7 pm.
• Use "since" with a starting point in time. Example: I have been studying English since 2015.
• Use "for" with a duration of time. Example: I have been studying English for five years.

List of Prepositions of Time

Here is a list of prepositions of time that you can use in your sentences:

• In
• On
• At
• Before
• After
• During
• Ago
• Since
• For
• From
• To
• Past
• Until
• By

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Prepositions of Time in Phrases

Prepositions of time can also be used in phrases. Here are some examples:

• In the morning/afternoon/evening
• On the weekend/weekdays
• At night/noon/midnight
• Before/after the party
• During the movie/concert
• Ago/since the beginning

Common Mistakes

Using prepositions of time can be tricky, and many people make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using "on" instead of "in" when referring to months. Example: I will visit my grandparents on July ("in July" is correct).
• Using "at" instead of "in" when referring to seasons. Example: I love skiing at winter ("in winter" is correct).
• Using "in" instead of "on" when referring to days. Example: Our anniversary is in Monday. ("on Monday" is correct)
• Using "since" instead of "for." Example: I have been studying English since five years. ("for five years" is correct)

Summary

Prepositions of time help us show when an event happened or will happen. Keep practicing, and you will master their usage in no time! Put them into practice. Start by writing simple sentences using prepositions of time and gradually move on to more complex sentences with them. Soon enough, you'll be a pro at it.