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Master English Grammar

Prepositions of Duration (For, During, Over)

Learn how to use prepositions of duration to talk about time. Understand how to correctly use for, during, and over.

What Are Prepositions of Duration?

Prepositions of duration (for, during, over) describe how long something happens or when it takes place.

Why Is This Important?

Using prepositions of duration correctly helps you communicate the length of time and timing of events accurately.

How to Use 'For', 'During', and 'Over'

'For' is used with a period of time (e.g., for two hours).
'During' is used with a specific event or time (e.g., during the meeting).
'Over' is used for longer periods or gradual actions (e.g., over the summer).

Common Examples

We stayed in Paris for two weeks.
She fell asleep during the movie.
He worked on his project over the weekend.

Key Points

  • Use 'for' to describe a length of time
    • We lived there for five years.
    • She studied for three hours.
  • Use 'during' with a specific time or event
    • He called me during the meeting.
    • They went shopping during the holidays.
  • Use 'over' for long periods or gradual actions
    • She improved her skills over the years.
    • They discussed the project over lunch.

Rules for Using Prepositions of Duration

  • Use 'for' to describe a specific duration

    • I waited for an hour.
    • She was on vacation for two weeks.
    • We studied for six months.

  • Use 'during' with events or time periods

    • He fell asleep during the lecture.
    • She worked during the summer.
    • They had a discussion during lunch.

  • Use 'over' for extended periods or gradual changes

    • My English has improved over the years.
    • We made a lot of progress over the weekend.
    • He recovered over time.

  • Special Cases & Exceptions:

    'For' is often omitted in spoken English with 'all' + time expressions.

  • In spoken English, 'for' can sometimes be left out.

    • Formal: I waited for an hour.
    • Spoken: I waited an hour.

  • Use 'over' for long periods, but 'during' for specific events.

    • Correct: We traveled over the summer.
    • Incorrect: We traveled during the summer.
ExampleTenseUse
We stayed in Paris for two weeks.Preposition of Duration'For' to indicate length of time
She fell asleep during the movie.Preposition of Duration'During' with a specific event
He worked on his project over the weekend.Preposition of Duration'Over' for long periods
My English has improved over the years.Preposition of Duration'Over' for gradual change

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the creators of these videos. These are publicly available resources used to provide additional information on the topic.