For and Since in Time Expressions are essential for indicating the duration and starting points of actions or events. Understanding their correct usage allows for clear and precise communication, especially in academic and professional contexts. This lesson will guide you through their meanings, uses, and common errors.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectShe has been studying English since three years.
BetterShe has been studying English for three years.
'For' is used with durations like 'three years'.
Example 2
IncorrectThey have been friends for 2010.
BetterThey have been friends since 2010.
'Since' is used with specific starting points like '2010'.
How It Works
Meaning
'For' and 'Since' are prepositions used in time expressions to indicate duration and starting points. 'For' specifies the length of time an action has been happening, while 'Since' indicates the starting point of an action that continues to the present.
Formation: 'For' + duration (e.g., hours, days), 'Since' + specific starting point (e.g., a date, a time).
Understanding these distinctions is crucial at the B2 level to ensure clarity in both spoken and written communication.
Use it when
- Describing how long an action has been occurring (e.g., 'for three years').
- Indicating when an action started and is still ongoing (e.g., 'since 2010').
- Writing formal reports or academic papers where precise time expressions are required.
- In spoken responses during exams to demonstrate time awareness.
See it
Quick rules
- Use 'for' with a duration (e.g., for two weeks).
- Use 'since' with a specific starting point (e.g., since last Monday).
- Do not mix 'for' with specific times or 'since' with durations.
- In perfect tenses, 'for' and 'since' are often used to show ongoing actions.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
Using 'for' with a specific time
WeakHe has been working here for 2015.
StrongHe has been working here since 2015.
Fix: Use 'since' with specific starting points.
Common problem 2
Using 'since' with a duration
WeakThey have lived here since ten years.
StrongThey have lived here for ten years.
Fix: Use 'for' with durations.
Common problem 3
Confusing 'for' and 'since' in perfect tenses
WeakShe has known him for 2009.
StrongShe has known him since 2009.
Fix: Use 'since' with specific starting points in perfect tenses.
Practice Lab
Practice
First notice the right form. Then build it yourself. Then fix it in a full sentence.
Score: 0/3
Focus on using 'for' and 'since' accurately in time expressions.
1. Quick pick
Choose the correct sentence.
2. Build it
Put this sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
They have been married since 2015.
They have been married for 2015.
We have been waiting for two hours.
We have been waiting since two hours.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Mastering 'for' and 'since' in time expressions enhances your ability to communicate time-related information accurately. This precision is crucial for clarity in both spoken and written English, making your communication more effective and trustworthy.
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