Until: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to specify a point in time when something will stop happening. Common in both formal and informal contexts.

• She will work on the project until midnight.
• You can stay here until tomorrow morning.

Used to indicate a limit of time or quantity. Common in both formal and informal contexts.

• The library is open up to 8 PM.
• You can invite up to 10 guests.

An informal variation of 'until'. Used in casual conversation and less formal writing.

• I'll wait here till you come back.
• We danced till dawn.

Used to indicate a time earlier than a specific point. Common in both formal and informal contexts.

• Finish your homework before dinner.
• She arrived at the meeting before anyone else.

Used to indicate when something will continue up to a certain point in time. Common in both formal and informal contexts.

• I will wait here until you come back.
• She worked until midnight to finish the project.

Used to describe an event or time that happens earlier than another event or time. Suitable for all types of contexts.

• We need to finish this task before lunch.
• He had never seen the movie before yesterday.

A more formal way of saying 'before,' often used in written and official documents.

• All documents should be submitted prior to the deadline.
• There was a meeting prior to the conference.

An informal and often colloquial alternative to 'until'. Commonly used in everyday conversation.

• Wait here till I get back.
• We talked till late at night.