The use of since and for in English grammar is essential when talking about time. Both are used to refer to time durations, but they are not interchangeable. Understanding the difference helps you communicate clearly and effectively in both speech and writing.

Since – Point in Time

We use “since” when referring to the starting point of an action that continues until now. It marks a specific moment in the past.

Examples:

• I have lived here since 2010.
• She has worked at this company since Monday.
• We have been friends since childhood.
• He has studied French since high school.
• They have played football together since last summer.
• My sister has been in London since March.

In each case, “since” is followed by a specific time reference: a year, day, event, or moment.

For – Duration of Time

Use “for” to express the length or duration of an action or event.

Examples:

• I have lived here for 15 years.
• She has worked at this company for three days.
• We have been friends for a long time.
• He has studied French for two hours.
• They have played football together for six months.
• My sister has been in London for five weeks.

“For” is always followed by a period of time: minutes, hours, days, months, or years.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many learners confuse these two words. A quick trick is this:

• If you’re pointing to when something began, use since.
• If you’re showing how long it has lasted, use for.

Practical Tips

To improve, try replacing the time reference in a sentence.

• Incorrect: I have known him since five years.
• Correct: I have known him for five years.
• Better: I have known him since 2019.
• Wrong: She has worked here since two weeks.
• Right: She has worked here for two weeks.

Also, always connect since and for with present perfect or present perfect continuous tenses. This keeps your grammar accurate and your meaning clear.

Conclusion

Using since and for in English grammar correctly improves clarity and precision in communication. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll soon use both confidently and naturally.

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