- Adverbs of duration describe how long an action lasts.
- Common examples include briefly, temporarily, forever, permanently, and indefinitely.
- They are typically placed between the subject and verb or at the end of a sentence.
- They are placed between a modal/auxiliary verb and the main verb.
Adverbs of duration help us describe how long an action goes on. These adverbs are essential in everyday communication, whether it’s about a temporary situation (for a while) or something that lasts forever (permanently). In this guide, you’ll learn about their meanings, usage, and placement, with plenty of examples.
What are adverbs of duration?
Adverbs of duration describe the length of time an action occurs. They answer the question, “For how long?” They are a type of adverb of time.
Types of adverbs of duration
Definite duration—indicates a specific length of time
- Examples: for two hours, until midnight, since Monday
Indefinite duration—does not specify an exact length of time
- Examples: briefly, permanently, indefinitely, temporarily
Common adverbs of duration and their usage
| Adverb of Duration | Meaning | Example Sentence |
| Briefly | For a short period of time | She briefly introduced herself before the lecture. |
| Temporarily | For a limited period | The road is temporarily closed due to repairs. |
| For a while | For a moderate, unspecified duration | He lived in Spain for a while. |
| Momentarily | For a very short time | The lights flickered momentarily. |
| For [two hours] | For a definite duration | They waited for two hours. |
| Until [midnight] | Up to a specific time | The shop is open until midnight. |
| Since [yesterday] | From a past time until now | I haven’t seen her since yesterday. |
| Indefinitely | For an unknown period of time | The event has been postponed indefinitely. |
| Permanently | Forever, without change | He has permanently moved to Japan. |
| Forever | For an infinite period | She promised to love him forever. |
| Throughout | From the beginning to the end of a period | The dog barked throughout the night. |
| All day | For the entire day | We stayed at the beach all day. |
| All night | For the entire night | She studied all night for the exam. |
| For years | For many years | They have been married for years. |
| For centuries | For hundreds of years | This tradition has existed for centuries. |
| For a lifetime | Lasting an entire life | He worked in the company for a lifetime. |
Placement of adverbs of duration in sentences
Between the subject and verb
For most verbs, adverbs of duration appear between the subject and verb.
Example: She briefly explained the instructions.
At the end of a sentence
Many adverbs of duration also naturally fit at the end of a sentence.
Example: They stayed at the hotel for a week.
Between auxiliary/modal verb and main verb
When you’re using an auxiliary or a modal verb, the adverb of duration is often placed between them.
Example: He has temporarily moved to another city.
