Within
'Within' is also a common word in the English language. Let us see what we can get from it.
'Within' can function as both a preposition and an adverb. In this lesson, we will discuss how to learn and use it.
Functions of 'Within'
'Within' as a Preposition
One of the main uses of 'within' is to be a preposition. Below, we are going to learn all about the different kinds of prepositions it can be:
Use
'Within' as a Preposition of Time
'Within' can sometimes be a preposition of time. When we want to show that something will/will not happen during a specific period of time, we use 'within' as a preposition. Look at the following examples:
I know it's hard for you, but you have to hand in your report
Here, it means that the action must not be done after this time.
In the IELTS exam, you must write an article on the subject
As you can see, we have a noun phrase after the preposition.
'Within' as a Preposition of Place
We can also use 'within' as a preposition of place. There is a list below to know all about its meanings. Let us study the following examples:
- When we want to show that something in not farther than a specific distance of something, we use 'within':
He said there's a cheap motel
My parents used to live
- When there is something inside someone/something, we use 'within' to refer to it:
Some days I cry a lot and become extremely emotional, but I always feel a deep strength
The fire spread quickly
- When something is in the limits of a specific subject, field, etc:
I'm sorry, but this is not
I hate it when I sometimes have to behave
Position in a Sentence
Since 'within' is a preposition here, it must always come before nouns or noun phrases to modify them. Let us check out the following examples:
What you're seeking is not
Sicily is living
'Within' as an Adverb
As stated above, 'within' can also be an adverb. Let us examine the different kinds of adverbs it can be:
Use
'Within' as an Adverb of Place
When we use 'within' as an adverb of place. it only means the inner part of something. Check out the following examples:
I could see people running around and screaming
I saw blue smoke coming from
Position in a Sentence
As you know, adverbs modify adjectives, verbs, and other adverbs. So, they mainly come after them. Let us look at the following examples:
I could sense danger
There were many people dancing
Idioms and Expressions with 'Within'
We have a few idioms with 'within' in the English language. Below, we are going to learn all about them:
- From within: When something happens inside a certain, community, organization, etc.:
If you want to experience real happiness, you'd better start changing
It's better to start destroying everything
- Within limits: When something can happen but in a limited amount, we use this one:
I can answer your question, but
Dad said he'd help you with the money,
- Within reason, When we want to judge someone, objectively, not emotionally, we use this one:
The minister said he accepts criticism, only
It's respectful when someone leaves a critical comment
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