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Within Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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within

[wɪˈðɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Preposition

time

Before a specified period ends

Synonyms

during, in, inside.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
within

Used to specify a range of time or space. It often implies something should happen by a certain time or in a limited area.

  • Please complete the project within two weeks.
  • She felt safe within the walls of her home.
inside

Describes being physically within an interior space or container. It is more concrete and tangible.

  • The cat is inside the box.
  • We stayed inside because it was raining.
in

General usage for time and place. It can describe being inside an area, involved in an activity, or specify a time period.

  • He is in the kitchen.
  • I'll see you in July.
  • She is in a good mood.
during

Used to describe something happening at the same time as another event. It is specifically related to a period of time.

  • She fell asleep during the movie.
  • We can't leave during the meeting.

Examples of usage

  • the task must be completed within two weeks
  • the event will take place within the next month
Context #2 | Adverb

distance

At a point or points inside; inside

Synonyms

indoors, inside, internally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
within

Use when referring to something happening or existing inside the limits of a space, time, or scope.

  • Please complete the project within two weeks.
  • He found peace within himself.
inside

Typically used to describe being in the inner part of something or being shut away from the outside.

  • I left my keys inside the car.
  • The cat is hiding inside the box.
indoors

Used when talking about being inside a building or structure.

  • We decided to stay indoors because it was raining heavily.
  • All the plants should be moved indoors for the winter.
internally

Used when discussing something happening within an organization, process, or body, often without external involvement. This word often has a technical or formal tone.

  • The company handled the issue internally, without needing to notify the public.
  • She struggled internally with her decision.

Examples of usage

  • the car pulled into the driveway and stopped within a few feet of the door
  • the store is located within walking distance
Context #3 | Adjective

contained

Inside (the specified thing)

Synonyms

contained, enclosed, inside.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
within

used to indicate that something is inside the limits, range, or scope of something else, often in a more abstract sense.

  • She finished the assignment within the deadline.
  • The solutions are within your reach.
inside

used to describe being in the inner part of something, more commonly used in everyday situations.

  • He hid the key inside the drawer.
  • The cat is inside the house.
enclosed

refers to something being surrounded or closed off on all sides, often physically.

  • The garden is enclosed by a fence.
  • The letter was enclosed in an envelope.
contained

refers to something being held, included, or kept inside something else, often implying a boundary or limit.

  • The box contained a surprise gift.
  • His laughter was barely contained.

Examples of usage

  • the money was within a plain white envelope
  • the answer lies within yourself

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • It often appears in poetry to suggest introspection or inner thoughts.
  • Famous works have used the term to highlight boundaries, such as in the works of Shakespeare.
  • In 'The Great Gatsby', the idea of something existing 'within' characters builds depth in their personal struggles.

Psychology

  • People often use the concept of 'within' to discuss self-awareness and internal dialogue.
  • Therapists encourage clients to explore feelings 'within' themselves during mindfulness practices.
  • The term relates to internal motivation, which can drive behavior more powerfully than external rewards.

Science

  • In biology, 'within' describes processes occurring inside living organisms, like cellular respiration.
  • Physics uses the concept to define forces or actions occurring within confined systems, like closed systems in thermodynamics.
  • Ecology explores 'within' contexts when studying species interactions in specific habitats.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous song lyrics reference feelings or conflicts addressed 'within' oneself, emphasizing self-reflection.
  • Movies often explore themes of 'within' as characters face their inner demons, enhancing emotional narratives.
  • The phrase 'within reach' is commonly used in motivational contexts, inspiring people to pursue personal goals.

Origin of 'within'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'wiþinnan', meaning 'from the inside out'.
  • It combines 'with' (in the company of) and 'in', emphasizing being contained.
  • Similar terms exist in other languages, such as 'dentro' in Spanish, which also means 'inside'.

The word 'within' originated from the Middle English 'withinn', which in turn came from the Old English 'withinne'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to indicate a location, time, or containment within something. The versatility of 'within' has made it a commonly used word in various contexts.

See also: notwithstanding, with, without.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #106, 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.