During vs Until vs By in English

During vs Until vs By in English

Using During in English

For part of a period of time. Used before a noun to say when something happens.

Examples

• I watched television during a break in my studies.
• They met her during the presentation.
• There is no school during September.
• During these years he never stopped taking bus trips.

Using Until in English

Up to, but not after, a specific time. To say how long a situation continues.

Examples

• I will stay until four o’clock.
• Are you going to work until 11:00?
• Until my father came home, I read a book.
• I could not get up this morning. I stayed in the bed until eleven.
• That’ll just have to wait until next week.

Using By in English

No later than time. Something happens by a time in the future.

Examples

• We need to be there by noon.
• He had promised to be back by four o’clock.
• Job applications must be received by the 22th April.
• I sent the documents to them today, so they must receive them by on Friday.