duration - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
duration Word Meanings
- the length of time that something lasts
- the period during which an event occurs
- a measure of time from start to finish
duration Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
duration Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dʒʊˈreɪ.ʃən/
US
/dʒʊˈreɪ.ʃən/
duration Word Etymology
Dur- = hard; -ation = result/action. Origin: Latin 'duratio' → Old French 'duracion' → English. Imagine a stopwatch capturing every tick during a race, marking every moment until the finish.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push a timer and watch the clock hands move. I hold the moment, counting as the duration stretches or snaps back, and I feel the effort in my posture. If I need more control, I adjust the pace, turn the dial, and change how I breathe to keep steady. When it ends, the sense of time carries me into what comes next.
Real Context
Duration is the length of time that something lasts. It can refer to the total span from start to finish, the period during which an event occurs, or a measured interval between two moments. In everyday English we talk about the duration of a movie, a meeting, a trip, or a battery life. It is often used with verbs like last or run, and with numbers and units (two hours, thirty minutes). Unlike length, which describes physical size, duration describes time. When comparing durations we use expressions like longer than or more than. Learners often confuse duration with for or during, or mix up start and end points when forming questions.
Usage Reminders
- Define duration with a time unit (hours, minutes).
- Use duration with verbs like last or run.
- Ask about duration: What was the duration of X?
- Pair duration with numbers for precision.
- Don’t use duration to describe physical size.
- Distinguish duration from for and during in questions and answers.
Common Misconceptions
- Duration is the same as length; duration is time, length is physical size.
- You can say 'the duration of the weather' – incorrect; weather isn’t measured in duration.
- Mixing up for and during with duration (e. g., 'for the movie' instead of 'the duration of the movie').
- Using duration with inappropriate verbs or prepositions (e. g., 'duration of two hours long').
- Confusing duration with start-to-finish times without a unit (two hours vs 2h).
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Use duration with units (hours, minutes).
- Compare durations with longer/shorter than.
- Differentiate duration from start-to-end times.
- Practice with real events (movies, meetings).
- Ask and answer questions about duration.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'duration'?
A.Time measurement
B.Temporary state
C.Fast movement
D.Huge amount
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'duration' used correctly?
A.I ran for a long distance.
B.His paintings were colorful.
C.She sang a beautiful song.
D.The duration of the movie was 2 hours.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'duration'?
A.Pause
B.Instant
C.Eternity
D.Brief
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'duration'?
A.Shortness
B.Delay
C.Permanence
D.Interval
Step 5: Mastery
How is the concept of 'duration' important in measuring events?
A.Determining color
B.Estimating weight
C.Assessing size
D.Calculating time
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App