Prepositions of time in English
Sign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for freeSign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for freeWe offer both private lessons and organized group courses
Sign up for free to get all available courses or contact one of our teachers yourself!
Our offer
This chapter discusses the prepositions of time in English. These prepositions are used to indicate when an action took place.
Prepositions of time in English are used to describe when an action happened. The prepositions are used for days, months, seasons, times and more.
Take online language lessons with a professional teacher
The table below shows the different prepositions of time with examples and their usage.
Preposition of time | Use | Example |
---|---|---|
After | Following something |
|
Ago | Back in the past |
|
As of | Starting from a point in time |
|
At |
|
|
Before | A prior point in time |
|
Between ... and | Period of time |
|
By | At some time before another given time. |
|
During | In the course of a period of time |
|
For | To show an amount of time |
|
From | Starting point in time |
|
In |
|
|
On |
|
|
Past | Telling the time |
|
Since | From a specific point of time in the past, continuing now |
|
Till / until | Up to a time in the future |
|
To |
|
|
Within | In less time than |
|
The prepositions 'in', 'at', and 'on' have multiple different usages, take a look at the chapter to find a detailed explanation.
There are some expressions of time that do not require a preposition, see the examples below.
Fill in the correct preposition of time in English, choosing from the ones behind the sentence in brackets.
They were absent three days. (since, until, for)
She waited for me 6 pm and then she went home. (until, before, by)
It never rains June. (at, on, in)
The report will not be completed the end of the week. (as, of, before, since)
We have to go to school Monday Friday. (as, of, between, and, within)
You have a meeting Thursday morning. (at, on, in)
He will be at the office 9 am. (from, on, during)
She was born 1987. (at, on, in)
He woke up 6 o'clock this morning. (at, on, in)
I have to be home 11 pm. (by, ago, within)
Fill in the correct preposition of time in English, choosing from the ones behind the sentence in brackets.
They were absent three days. (since, until, for)
She waited for me 6 pm and then she went home. (until, before, by)
It never rains June. (at, on, in)
The report will not be completed the end of the week. (as, of, before, since)
We have to go to school Monday Friday. (as, of, between, and, within)
You have a meeting Thursday morning. (at, on, in)
He will be at the office 9 am. (from, on, during)
She was born 1987. (at, on, in)
He woke up 6 o'clock this morning. (at, on, in)
I have to be home 11 pm. (by, ago, within)
Unlike in other platforms, all our teachers are manually verified by our professional team. Trust in the experiences of our students.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Olesya is an enthusiastic new teacher. She has lots of learning materials, and she teaches interactive classes. She is very patient and will certainly help you learn Russian in a fun manner!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hey everyone!
My name is Ashlyn, and I am a native English speaker from New Zealand :) I love to create lessons for my students to help them make their English language journey as enjoyable as possible! I am an online university student studying history and social anthropology.
I have two years of teaching experience in private English language schools, and I also have a CELTA certificate. Therefore, I know how to teach English effectively and create lessons to practice speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.
I love to use technology in the classroom, and I always create fun and colourful PowerPoint presentations to guide us through the lesson. I am always open to suggestions from my students. If you want to focus more on certain topics or activities, I am happy to make that possible for you.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I would like to recommend Ashlyn P. as an English language teacher. She is a great English teacher : patient, reliable, professional and very motivated. Her classes are very interesting : I have possibility to practice speaking and grammar, I always receive feedback about my mistakes and we practice the problems that are most difficult for me. She is also a very friendly and easy - going person. I am very happy with my decision to study online and I would recommend her to any online student who wants to improve his language skills.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Have you always dreamed of becoming an expert in the English language? Now you can!
I am a sworn translator and have more than 15 years of experience. Together with me you will be a near native speaker in no time!
My name is Wendy and I have been working as a sworn translator and reviser in the English and Dutch language for more than 15 years. In addition, I occasionally help students and pupils with their lessons, young and old.
Would you also like to become a language professional? Or do you just want to be able to get by in the English or Dutch language, and especially want to practice speaking? Then you're in the right place with me. I would be happy to help you!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Wendy is an enthusiastic new teacher. She is very patient and has a passion for the languages she teaches. She has lots of useful learning materials, and you will certainly feel welcome in her class.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi, welcome to my profile!
My name is Alessia and I currently live in Italy. I spent a few years in the United States where I deepened my knowledge of English and American dialects. I am currently specializing in Spanish and German. Over the years, I have given private lessons in Italian, English, Spanish, and Japanese, with Japanese being the most requested at the moment. Regarding Japanese, I had the opportunity to teach the language at an American college with a native Japanese teacher, applying the method that they use to learn their own language. I will help you in a simple way; conversation is really important for learning a language, and a good method is even more fundamental. No days spent on textbooks are needed; consistency and fun during lessons are the most important parts of learning. You will see results right away! I am patient, flexible, and will adapt in every way to your personal needs. I look forward to seeing you on my profile for a trial lesson and discovering an easy and fun method to learn a language as soon as possible.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Alessia is a really nice teacher with a lovely personality. It was very helpful. I recommend her for anyone, child or adult. Thank you
Alessia T.
Thank you , I really appreciate it!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi, my name is Veronika.
I am a native Russian language speaker who is certified in teaching Russian as a foreign language. I am a member of Association for Language Learning and I hold a degree in Journalism as well as a Master’s in Philological Sciences.
I have lived in the UK since 2012 and have taught Russian at different levels both face to face and online. I understand the challenges of learning a language and the importance of classes that are both enjoyable and enable good progress. All my lessons are therefore planned according to individual needs using textbooks as well as my own materials and authentic Russian language sources.
I have always been interested in language acquisition, passionate about teaching and highly focused upon helping learners achieve their language goals.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Veronika has over 9 years of teaching experience. She is very patient and adjust her classes to the needs of each individual student of hers. She is kind, and you'll surely feel comfortable in her classes.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
-About Me
Hi! My name is Daniel. I'm 26 years old and I currently live in Seville, Spain. I have been teaching Spanish for 4 years now because I love to teach my language and culture to others. I'm interested in movies, especially french cinema of Nouvelle Vague, literature and music of all genres.
-Me as a Teacher
I graduated in Hispanic Philology with a master’s degree in Teaching Spanish as a Second Language at University of Sevilla with more than 3 years of experience teaching Spanish to students from different nationalities, countries, ages and levels (from absolutely begginer to C2).
I have worked with USA and Erasmus university students, refugees with any knowledge of Spanish, British, Chinese or Koreans students, among others. For doing that I have prepared personalized lessons based on the needs and interests of the students.
Also, I’m an official DELE Examiner certified by Instituto Cervantes who has helped a lot of students to get their Spanish level certificated in different levels.
-My Lessons & Teaching Style
-Very communicative lessons adapted to the needs and interests of my students.
-Personalised lessons based on each student and their goals.
-Lessons about conversation, gramar, culture…
-My main goal is to help you to speak Spanish with confidence and fluently.
-Access to all the material used.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Daniel has over 4 years of teaching experience. He has experience in teaching online, offline and to people from all different cultural backgrounds. He teaches all levels from A1 to C2. Furthermore, he has a broad variety of learning materials available for each level. You will surely learn a lot from him!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hey everyone!
My name is Ashlyn, and I am a native English speaker from New Zealand :) I love to create lessons for my students to help them make their English language journey as enjoyable as possible! I am an online university student studying history and social anthropology.
I have two years of teaching experience in private English language schools, and I also have a CELTA certificate. Therefore, I know how to teach English effectively and create lessons to practice speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.
I love to use technology in the classroom, and I always create fun and colourful PowerPoint presentations to guide us through the lesson. I am always open to suggestions from my students. If you want to focus more on certain topics or activities, I am happy to make that possible for you.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Ashlyn is a very competent teacher, her courses are very clear and structured. The lesson is adapted to match with our interests and also there are some games which make the course interactive. I highly recommend her!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
This is Kezia , she is a Native English Speaker who loves meeting new people and learning about countries and their cultures. She has over 8 years of teaching experience both in the classroom and online, she is able to teach from age 20 years old to age 80 years old, teaching from the beginner level to the advanced level student. She has a customized teaching skill set that is unique to all her students as each student has different learning goals and needs as well as each student has different strengths. She teaches in a fun, relaxed, easy and simple way that will have you more confident and be able to communicate much better after a few lessons. She is able to teach you grammar,writing,reading and pronunciation.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Kezia has taught to all ages and backgrounds. She has over 8 years of teaching experience. Furthermore, she adjusts her classes to the needs of every individual student. She teaches to all levels (A1-C2). She is very enthusiastic and ready to help you learn the English language!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Well done on making the first step to learning English! It is a fantastic addition to your professional or personal profile. I started my journey as an actress, I moved quickly into the world of Education finding my passion in early childhood development. I am a qualified teacher and have been working in international schools for many years. I recently acquired my TEFL certificate allowing me to expand my horizons and teach online. I grew up in Hong Kong before moving back to England. I have lived in Portugal for the last year teaching Portuguese and French children, I loved the diversity and felt I wanted to teach adults too. Since then I have been tutoring online which has given me the chance to meet people from all over the world and help them on their language journey in a comfortable and open environment. I am married to a Frenchman so I have basic understanding of French and I have a French tutor myself!
I usually test the level at the beginning and then plan with the students the goals they want to achieve. After that with every lesson I check progress and points to review with the help of a log to have a clear plan in every lesson. I believe it is VERY important for the teacher and student to share a positive connection and for both parties to feel comfortable. Drop me an email to make the booking!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Samantha is a fantastic teacher, she clearly has lots of experience and I felt an instant connection with her. I have been looking for the right person to help me with my spoken English and I believe we will be a good fit when I am ready to book more lessons. Thanks Samantha I cant wait to start learning with you,
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello!
I am Teacher Adan and I want you to speak and write English / Spanish. I have worked as an English teacher for more than 3 years with different groups and ages. I have also taught private classes, prepared students for international certifications and improved speaking in one to one lessons. The vast majority of my students succee when we work together as a team in the journey of learning a foreign language. As a result of my years of preparation and practice, I have got a university degree where I had the chance to teach subjects from my career in my senior year as well. I obtained a couple of certifications of trainings and seminars that I have been invited to and I recently obtained an international teaching certification (TEFL) and the English proficiency certificate in C2 level (advanced).
But let's focus on you and your interest in speaking a new language, I invite you to become part of my multiple students and finally be able to communicate in a different language even if your purpose is either for business, education or just for fun.
In my classes I involve my students with topics they are interested in, so that by the moment of speaking it is easy for them to discuss or give their point of view. I use technology to play games such as Kahoot, Google plataform, Charades, Quizizz and Kami. My students are always active producing and doing something so that the class is engaging and dinamic rather than only listening to the teacher. My methodology of work is based on having a learning environment where everyone can ask and participate in the language my students are learning. My main focus is to make everyone understand what I teach and how they can use in real life situations the content I give.
My learning materials are a book updated with the latest methods while learning a foreign language based on Person's content, the on-line tools I mentioned before so my students can develop interactive worksheets, speaking tasks, writings or vocabulary games and you (my student), who is the key to develop a well structured class with learning purposes.
I would love to receive an email from you in case of doubts or confirmation of the schedule for the class and get ready to become the next English / Spanish speaker.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Adan is a very profesional teacher. One of the things I like the most is that he is very flexible person and adapts to my ability. Im really pleased with him.
Adan G.
Thanks Nuria. You are such a really good student too and dedicated. See you back in class soon.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am a BA in Education graduate, with vast experience in primary, secondary and higher education levels, as well as in other activities related to education. I believe I have a diverse background which makes me a very adaptable teacher and with a lot to offer.
Most of my experience is in high school ,in adult education and university students. I have been able to develop a good relationship with my students, which has translated to better communication and an altogether more rounded experience for them and myself. My lesson planning has always aimed to reflect my students’ needs and interest applied into useful communicative language structures that they can actually use in their lives.
In my last years as a teacher, I have focused on preparing test-takers for the TOEFL. It has been a completely different experience from what I have had before, but I have helped my students accomplish the desired scores in the proposed time.
I believe in making the learning of a new language something exciting and not frightening at all, but challenging and gratifying instead. My material is dynamic and keeps my students engaged and continuesly developing their communiation skills.
I am flexible with my students' time and shcedule; naturally, it is open for deliberation if needed. I look forward to helping you get to the desired goals you set foryourself!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Daniel is a wonderful teacher. He can deduce what the needs of each student are and make the class in an entertaining and enriching way. I definitely recommend this teacher!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hey everyone!
My name is Ashlyn, and I am a native English speaker from New Zealand :) I love to create lessons for my students to help them make their English language journey as enjoyable as possible! I am an online university student studying history and social anthropology.
I have two years of teaching experience in private English language schools, and I also have a CELTA certificate. Therefore, I know how to teach English effectively and create lessons to practice speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.
I love to use technology in the classroom, and I always create fun and colourful PowerPoint presentations to guide us through the lesson. I am always open to suggestions from my students. If you want to focus more on certain topics or activities, I am happy to make that possible for you.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
She speaks very clearly and she uses her time very well. She plans the lessons based on your interests and make it very fun. She has very good energy and I recommend her to everyone..
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello! I am a CELTA-qualified native English teacher offering lessons carefully tailored to your needs. Learn by dynamic conversation exchange, written pieces, songs lyrics, podcasts, and fun and challenging exercises.
I have a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and have been rock climbing for about 25 years. As an Italian language learner myself, I believe that talking about your passions is one of the most effective ways of mastering a new language. I look forward to hearing about your interests!
I offer a free 15-minute meeting to discuss your personal goals for learning. Let’s work together to bring you closer to those English language goals!
-Parlo italiano-
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Melissa is a great teacher. The lessons are just what I was looking for: conversation, writting, grammar..
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello, my name is Corinne and I am a qualified ESL English teacher from England. I have been teaching in classrooms and online for over 3 years and I have many satisfied students.
My lessons are student-centred and usually take place on Skype. I treat every student as an individual and tailor my lessons to meet their goals. I use a variety of text books and free online resources including exercises, articles and videos. I usually give out a little homework at the end of each lesson to reinforce what we have done together.
In your first lesson, we will discuss your needs and check your current level. From this, we can decide what sort of lessons will suit you the best. Perhaps you struggle with grammar and sentence structure? Perhaps you need to practice English for a specific purpose, like understanding lectures, making phone calls at work, or travelling? Or perhaps you need a structured course so that you can learn English step by step?
Whatever you need, I’m here to help. I see it as my job to make you feel safe, build your confidence and make your lessons enjoyable. I look forward to hearing from you and to helping you on your path to speaking better English. Book your first lesson now and let’s get started.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Corinne is a kind, professional teacher and a great person! I strongly recommend her excellent lessons.
Corinne P.
![]()
Thank you, Anastasiia!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Olesya is an enthusiastic new teacher. She has lots of learning materials, and she teaches interactive classes. She is very patient and will certainly help you learn Russian in a fun manner!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hey everyone!
My name is Ashlyn, and I am a native English speaker from New Zealand :) I love to create lessons for my students to help them make their English language journey as enjoyable as possible! I am an online university student studying history and social anthropology.
I have two years of teaching experience in private English language schools, and I also have a CELTA certificate. Therefore, I know how to teach English effectively and create lessons to practice speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.
I love to use technology in the classroom, and I always create fun and colourful PowerPoint presentations to guide us through the lesson. I am always open to suggestions from my students. If you want to focus more on certain topics or activities, I am happy to make that possible for you.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I would like to recommend Ashlyn P. as an English language teacher. She is a great English teacher : patient, reliable, professional and very motivated. Her classes are very interesting : I have possibility to practice speaking and grammar, I always receive feedback about my mistakes and we practice the problems that are most difficult for me. She is also a very friendly and easy - going person. I am very happy with my decision to study online and I would recommend her to any online student who wants to improve his language skills.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Have you always dreamed of becoming an expert in the English language? Now you can!
I am a sworn translator and have more than 15 years of experience. Together with me you will be a near native speaker in no time!
My name is Wendy and I have been working as a sworn translator and reviser in the English and Dutch language for more than 15 years. In addition, I occasionally help students and pupils with their lessons, young and old.
Would you also like to become a language professional? Or do you just want to be able to get by in the English or Dutch language, and especially want to practice speaking? Then you're in the right place with me. I would be happy to help you!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Wendy is an enthusiastic new teacher. She is very patient and has a passion for the languages she teaches. She has lots of useful learning materials, and you will certainly feel welcome in her class.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi, welcome to my profile!
My name is Alessia and I currently live in Italy. I spent a few years in the United States where I deepened my knowledge of English and American dialects. I am currently specializing in Spanish and German. Over the years, I have given private lessons in Italian, English, Spanish, and Japanese, with Japanese being the most requested at the moment. Regarding Japanese, I had the opportunity to teach the language at an American college with a native Japanese teacher, applying the method that they use to learn their own language. I will help you in a simple way; conversation is really important for learning a language, and a good method is even more fundamental. No days spent on textbooks are needed; consistency and fun during lessons are the most important parts of learning. You will see results right away! I am patient, flexible, and will adapt in every way to your personal needs. I look forward to seeing you on my profile for a trial lesson and discovering an easy and fun method to learn a language as soon as possible.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Alessia is a really nice teacher with a lovely personality. It was very helpful. I recommend her for anyone, child or adult. Thank you
Alessia T.
Thank you , I really appreciate it!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials