Duration: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want to talk about the total time something lasts, from beginning to end, without interruptions.

• The duration of the meeting was two hours.
• Please stay for the entire duration of the movie.

When focusing on the measurement of the longest dimension of an object or duration of time, often specific and measurable.

• The length of the table is six feet.
• The length of the movie is two hours.

When referring to a specific segment of time with clear starting and ending points, often used in historical or academic contexts.

• The Renaissance was a period of great cultural change.
• She was absent for a period of two weeks.

When discussing the range, scope, or degree of something, often emphasizing its overall reach or impact.

• The extent of the damage was severe.
• She couldn't comprehend the full extent of his generosity.

Suitable for describing the entire time something lasts or continues. Should be used in formal or technical contexts.

• The duration of the movie is two hours
• ; The medication's duration of effect is approximately six hours

General term used to describe any form of time measurement, can be used in both casual and formal contexts.

• What time does the movie start?; We need to manage our time better

Used when referring to the measurement of time, often in more casual or broad discussions.

• The length of the concert was three hours
• ; The length of his speech surprised everyone

Refers to a specific segment of time. Often used in historical, scientific, or educational contexts.

• The dinosaur era was a fascinating period
• ; She was absent for a short period due to illness

Best used to indicate the total time something lasts or continues.

• The duration of the movie was two hours.
• We need to know the duration of your stay.

Used to describe the length of a particular time segment, often more general or broad than 'period'.

• The project was completed within a time span of three months.
• Over a time span of several years, the forest regenerated.

Typically used in the context of how long a movie, play, or computer program takes to run.

• The movie had a runtime of 90 minutes.
• This software's runtime is relatively quick.

Suitable for talking about a specific length of time, often with a start and end; can also refer to part of a repeating cycle.

• The Renaissance was a fascinating period in history.
• This medication should be taken for a period of two weeks.