During, While, For, Since and Until

30 May 2015 by Diane

DURING (+ NOUN)

Used when we want to talk about something that happened at the same time as something else.

ex. During the summer she worked as a babysitter.

     Try not to fall asleep during class.

     She could not stop talking during the movie.

WHILE (+ SUBJECT + VERB)

Used when we want to talk about something that happened at the same time as something else.

ex.  While I was eating lunch, I read this book.

    Please, don't drink alcohol while you are driving.

FOR (+ LENGTH OF TIME)         

Used when we want to talk about how long something lasts.

ex. They study for two hours every day.

      I worked at the bank for five years.

      I have been working on this project for two weeks!

SINCE ( + THE TIME THE ACTION STARTED)  * used with a perfect tense!

ex. He has been living in London since 1997.

     We've known about it since June.

     He has played soccer since he was a child.

             

UNTIL ( + THE TIME THE ACTION FINISHES)

ex. I will stay in Chicago until June.

     She lived in France until she was fluent in French.

    He works until 5pm on Fridays.