Understanding Time Differences: An In-Depth Look at Since vs For

Introduction

In English, understanding the meaning of ‘since’ vs ‘for’ can be challenging for learners. This guide aims to explore the concepts and unravel the complexities surrounding these two words, providing a comprehensive understanding through thorough exploration, practical exercises, FAQs, and an in-depth analysis.

Understanding ‘Since’ vs ‘For’ 

At its core, ‘since’ and ‘for both are temporal expressions, yet their roles differ.

Since

‘Since’ acts like a guide pinpointing the initiation of an action in the past and its influence into the present. It’s like a key that connects the beginning of an event to the present, quietly telling us it’s ongoing. 

For

Now, ‘for’ does something different. It’s like a tool to measure how long something lasts. It can cover the time an action took in the past, is taking now, or will take in the future. It helps us understand the duration of an event over time. 

Understanding the difference: Since vs For

A detailed understanding of the key usage of ‘since’ vs ‘for’ is pivotal for precision in communication. Let’s understand the difference with examples, 

• I’ve been working for three hours. (Duration – ‘for’)

In this example, the use of ‘for’ highlights the duration or length of time for which the action of working has been happening. In this case, the speaker specifies the amount of time, which is three hours. The focus here is on how long the activity has been ongoing, and ‘for’ is used to quantify that duration.

Explanation:

• The action: working
• The duration: three hours
• Meaning: The speaker has been continuously working, and this has been going on for a specified period of three hours.

• I’ve been working since 2 PM. (Starting point – ‘since’)

Contrastingly, in this example, ‘since’ is used to pinpoint the starting point of the action. The speaker specifies when the activity of working began. The emphasis here is on the initiation of the action at a particular moment in time, in this case, 2 PM.

Explanation:

• The action: working
• The starting point: 2 PM
• Meaning: The speaker started working at 2 PM, and the action has continued from that specific time until the present.

Examples of Since and For, for better understanding:

‘Since’:

1. I have been living in this city since 2010.
2. She has been playing the piano since she was six years old.
3. They have known each other since college.
4. The store has been closed since yesterday.
5. We have been friends since our childhood.

‘For’:

1. I will be on vacation for two weeks.
2. She has been studying for the exam all day.
3. We have been waiting in line for an hour.
4. They have been working together for five years.
5. The concert will last for three hours.

Common pitfalls to avoid 

Language learners often get confused when distinguishing between ‘since’ and ‘for.’ Let’s explore common pitfalls and strategies to navigate through them.

• One big mistake is using ‘since’ and ‘for’ as if they mean the same thing. It’s important to understand that they have different jobs in a sentence, and using them incorrectly can be confusing. 
• Another common pitfall involves misjudging the duration. You need to figure out if you’re talking about when something started (‘since’) or how long it lasts (‘for’). Understanding this helps you use the right words in your sentences. 

In English, ‘since’ and ‘for’ stand as signposts, guiding us through the temporal landscape. Mastering their usage requires theoretical knowledge and active engagement through exercises and continuous learning. As you learn, may your journey in language be enjoyable and bring you lots of good things. 

Exercise: Mastering ‘Since and For’

Let’s delve into practical exercises to check your understanding of when to use ‘since’ and ‘for’ in different temporal scenarios. Choose the correct preposition in each sentence.

1. I have been living in this city _____ five years.

• a) since
• b) for

1. They have been working together _____ the last decade.

• a) since
• b) for

1. She has been studying French _____ three months.

• a) since
• b) for

1. Our team has been collaborating _____ the project’s inception.

• a) since
• b) for

1. He has been absent _____ two days.

• a) since
• b) for

1. They have known each other _____ childhood.

• a) since
• b) for

1. I’ve been waiting here _____ 3 PM.

• a) since
• b) for

1. The company has been thriving _____ its establishment.

• a) since
• b) for

1. We’ve been friends _____ a very long time.

• a) since
• b) for

1. She has been practicing yoga _____ the past year.

• a) since
• b) for

Answers:

1. b) for
2. a) since
3. b) for
4. a) since
5. b) for
6. a) since
7. a) since
8. a) since
9. b) for
10. b) for

FAQs