Until Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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until
[ənˈtɪl ]
Definitions
time
Up to (the point in time or the event mentioned).
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| until |
Used to specify a point in time when something will stop happening. Common in both formal and informal contexts.
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| up to |
Used to indicate a limit of time or quantity. Common in both formal and informal contexts.
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| till |
An informal variation of 'until'. Used in casual conversation and less formal writing.
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| before |
Used to indicate a time earlier than a specific point. Common in both formal and informal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- I waited until six o'clock.
- We won't know the results until tomorrow.
time
Before (a particular time or event).
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| until |
Used to indicate when something will continue up to a certain point in time. Common in both formal and informal contexts.
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| before |
Used to describe an event or time that happens earlier than another event or time. Suitable for all types of contexts.
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| prior to |
A more formal way of saying 'before,' often used in written and official documents.
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| till |
An informal and often colloquial alternative to 'until'. Commonly used in everyday conversation.
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Examples of usage
- I can't leave until you arrive.
- He didn't eat until he was hungry.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Grammar
- 'Until' is often used as a preposition or conjunction that connects clauses, showing a time relationship.
- 'Until' can also signal a negative consequence, as in 'don’t go until I get back.'
- In contrast to 'while', which indicates something happening simultaneously, 'until' marks a point of change.
Literature
- In classic literature, authors often use 'until' to create suspense, leading readers to anticipate what will happen next.
- Shakespeare frequently employed 'until' in his works to emphasize the conditions or limits of actions and events.
- Contemporary poetry uses 'until' to explore themes of time, change, and longing.
Cultural References
- 'Until' has been used in popular songs, emphasizing themes of waiting and longing, such as in titles of love songs.
- Movies often employ scenarios that revolve around 'until' moments, such as waiting for a reunion or the resolution of a conflict.
- 'Until dawn' or 'until the end' are common phrases in various cultures, denoting determination or commitment.
Origin of 'until'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'until' comes from the Old English 'untill', which means 'up to'.
- It originally combined the elements 'un-' (not) and 'till', which meant 'to' or 'up to'.
- In Middle English, the form 'til' became popular, showing its evolution into modern usage.
The word 'until' originated from Middle English, from Old Norse und (up to) and till (to). It has been used in the English language since the 13th century. Over time, the usage of 'until' has evolved to become a commonly used preposition and conjunction to denote time or events.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #171, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.