Hours: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to a specific number of hours, typically when discussing days, work shifts, or business hours.

• The store is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
• I worked for eight hours today.

Used in a general sense to refer to the ongoing sequence of events or the specific moment when something occurs.

• What time is it?
• It's time to go to bed.
• We had a great time at the party.

Used when discussing the total time something lasts, often in terms of events, processes, or activities.

• The duration of the movie is two hours.
• The project will have a duration of six months.

Used to describe a span of time with a defined start and end, frequently in academic, historical, or scientific contexts.

• The medieval period lasted from the 5th to the late 15th century.
• We will be studying the Roman period in history class.

Used generally to refer to the amount of time something is open, available, or operational.

• The library has extended its hours during finals week.
• We need to track our working hours more efficiently.

Specifically details when a business or public place opens its doors to customers or visitors.

• The opening hours for the museum are from 10 AM to 6 PM.
• Check the opening hours of the restaurant before you go.

Used to indicate when a facility, service, or machine is functioning or available for use.

• The operating hours of the hospital are 24/7.
• Make sure you know the operating hours of the equipment.

Refers to the standard period of the day when commercial businesses are open to the public, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM.

• Please call back during regular business hours.
• The customer service department is available during business hours.

Typically in reference to the duration of an event or activity in general, not necessarily related to work.

• The store is open for extended hours during the holidays.
• The movie lasted for three hours.

Denotes the time period specifically allocated for performing job-related tasks.

• Please respect my work time and avoid unnecessary interruptions.
• He utilizes his work time effectively to meet project deadlines.

Refers to physical or mental effort, often linked to manual work or efforts by workers collectively.

• Construction labor can be very demanding.
• The labor union is negotiating for better wages.

Describes a period of work time within a 24-hour day, often used in jobs that require around-the-clock staffing.

• She works the night shift at the hospital.
• My shift starts at midnight and ends at 8 AM.