vs.

During vs. Within

What's the Difference?

During and within are both prepositions that indicate a specific time frame or period. However, during is used to refer to an action or event that occurs throughout the entirety of a specified time period, while within is used to refer to an action or event that occurs at some point during a specified time period. For example, one might say "during the meeting, I took notes" to indicate that note-taking occurred throughout the entire meeting, while one might say "within the meeting, I raised an important point" to indicate that the point was raised at some point during the meeting.

Comparison

During
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AttributeDuringWithin
DefinitionThroughout the duration of a specified time periodInside or contained by something
Time FrameRefers to a specific period of timeRefers to a specific location or space
UsageUsed to indicate when something happensUsed to indicate where something is located
RelationRelates to time and durationRelates to space and containment
Within
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Further Detail

Definition

During and within are two prepositions that are often used to indicate a specific time frame or period. During is used to show when something happens within a particular time frame, while within is used to indicate a specific time frame or period in which something occurs. Both words are commonly used in English language to describe events, actions, or situations that take place within a certain time frame.

Usage

During is used when referring to a period of time in which an event or action takes place. For example, "I saw him during the meeting." Within, on the other hand, is used to indicate a specific time frame or period in which something occurs. For example, "I will finish the project within a week." Both words are used to specify the time frame in which something happens, but they are used in slightly different contexts.

Duration

During is often used to indicate the entire duration of an event or action. For example, "She was silent during the entire movie." Within, however, is used to specify a particular time frame or period in which something occurs. For example, "The package will arrive within two days." While during refers to the entire duration of an event, within specifies a specific time frame within which something happens.

Scope

During is used to refer to a broad time frame or period in which an event or action takes place. For example, "He was talking on the phone during the party." Within, on the other hand, is used to specify a specific time frame or period in which something occurs. For example, "The report must be submitted within the next hour." While during has a broader scope, within is more specific in indicating the time frame in which something happens.

Context

During is often used in a more general context to indicate when something happens within a certain time frame. For example, "She was reading a book during the flight." Within, however, is used in a more specific context to indicate a particular time frame or period in which something occurs. For example, "The project must be completed within the next month." While during is used in a broader context, within is used in a more specific context to specify the time frame in which something happens.

Examples

  • During the concert, she sang her new song.
  • Within the next hour, the package will be delivered.
  • He was silent during the entire meeting.
  • The report must be submitted within the next day.

Conclusion

During and within are two prepositions that are commonly used in English language to indicate a specific time frame or period in which something happens. While during is used to refer to the entire duration of an event or action within a certain time frame, within is used to specify a particular time frame or period in which something occurs. Both words are important in specifying the time frame in which something happens, but they are used in slightly different contexts and scopes. Understanding the differences between during and within can help improve your English language skills and communication.

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