In VS Within
I have some difficult when using these two words. I Think that when using "in" it means "about" and when using "within" it is "before that time".
Leave this place in one day.
(You have exactly 1 day to leave)
Leave this place within a day.
(You have less than 1 day to leave)
I will be there in 5 minutes.
(This means about 5 minutes. Maybe I get there in 4 min and 50 secs)
I will be there within 5 minutes.
(This means less than 5 minutes. Maybe 3 minutes)
I don't know if I am right.
Thank you in advance
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Answers · 2
0
The word "in" is much more commonly used than "within." You can think of "within" as up to and including a certain time frame. (Within four days, we should know if we will get the contract). At anytime during those four days, news of the contract should arrive.
However, it can also mean "inside" (of a building or other). "The treasure is said to be buried within the ruins."
As for "in," you seem to understand it's meaning from reading your question. I would just like to add that "In the future" is correct and NOT "Within the future." "In your dreams" and NOT "within your dreams."
0
You're very right. Within meaning 'less than' or 'before' the noun that follows. So 'within 5 minutes' would mean '5 minutes or less', 'in 5 minutes' would mean 5 minutes roughly.
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