Prepositions of Time

Prepositions of time are used to talk about specific time periods and durations. In this guide, we will focus on the following prepositions: "a" (at), "in" (in), "da" (from), and "per" (for). Understanding how to use these prepositions will help you accurately express time-related information in your language.

1. "A" (At)

The preposition "a" is used to indicate a specific point in time. Here are some common uses:

• Specific Time: Use "a" to indicate the exact time something happens.

  • Example: Arrivo a casa alle 8. (I arrive at home at 8 o'clock.)

• Days of the Week: Use "a" before the days of the week.

  • Example: Vado al mare sabato. (I go to the sea on Saturday.)

2. "In" (In)

The preposition "in" is used to indicate a general time period or duration. Here are some common uses:

• Months: Use "in" before the names of the months.

  • Example: Il mio compleanno è in agosto. (My birthday is in August.)

• Years: Use "in" before the years.

  • Example: Sono nato in 1990. (I was born in 1990.)

• General Time Periods: Use "in" to indicate a general time period or duration.

  • Example: Mi piace fare una passeggiata in primavera. (I like to take a walk in spring.)

3. "Da" (From)

The preposition "da" is used to indicate the starting point of a time period. Here are some common uses:

• Starting Time: Use "da" to indicate the starting point of a time period.

  • Example: Studio italiano da lunedì. (I study Italian from Monday.)

• End of Time Period: Use "da" to indicate the end of a time period.

  • Example: Ho vissuto in Italia da 2010 a 2015. (I lived in Italy from 2010 to 2015.)

4. "Per" (For)

The preposition "per" is used to indicate the duration of a time period. Here are some common uses:

• Duration: Use "per" to indicate the duration of a time period.

  • Example: Ho aspettato per un'ora. (I waited for an hour.)

• Period of Time: Use "per" before a period of time.

  • Example: Mi sveglio presto per la settimana. (I wake up early for the week.)

Conclusion

With this guide, you now have a better understanding of how to use prepositions of time. Remember to use "a" for specific points in time, "in" for general time periods, "da" for starting points, and "per" for durations. By using these prepositions correctly, you can accurately express time-related information in your language.