Within is an adverb or preposition used to describe a location, time, or distance. It can be used when referring to a location that is inside a building, room, area, or other space. It can also be used to describe a time that is close to the present moment, or a distance that is close to a certain point.
Location
When using within to describe a location, it usually means that the object is inside of a certain area. For example, if a person says that the cat is within the house, it means that the cat is inside of the house, but not necessarily in any specific room. The same can be said for other locations, such as within a city, forest, or mountain range.
Time
When used to describe a time, within usually means that the time is close to the present. For example, if someone says that they will arrive within the hour, it means that they will arrive at some point during the current hour. It can also be used to describe a time that is close to a certain point in the future, such as within the next week.
Distance
Within can also be used to describe a distance that is close to a certain point. For example, if someone says that the store is within walking distance, it means that the store is close enough to be reached on foot. It can also be used to describe a distance that is close to a certain point in space, such as a star being within the Milky Way galaxy.
Examples
Here are some examples of how within can be used in a sentence:
- The cat was within the house when I arrived.
- I will arrive within the hour.
- The store is within walking distance.
- The star is within the Milky Way galaxy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when something is "within" something else?
When something is “within” something else, it typically means that it is inside of the other thing. For example, if a cat is said to be within a house, it means that it is inside of the house, but not necessarily in any specific room.
What is the difference between "within" and "inside"?
The difference between “within” and “inside” is that “within” is more general, while “inside” is more specific. For example, if a cat is said to be within a house, it means that it is inside of the house, but not necessarily in any specific room. If the cat is said to be inside a room, it means that it is specifically inside of that room.
When should I use the word "within"?
You should use the word “within” when you are referring to a location, time, or distance that is close to a certain point. For example, if you want to say that a store is within walking distance, you would use the word “within.”
What does it mean when someone says they will arrive "within" a certain amount of time?
When someone says they will arrive “within” a certain amount of time, it means that they will arrive at some point during that amount of time. For example, if someone says they will arrive within the hour, it means that they will arrive at some point during the current hour.
Can "within" be used to describe a distance in space?
Yes, “within” can be used to describe a distance in space. For example, if a star is said to be within the Milky Way galaxy, it means that it is close enough to be considered part of the galaxy.
Can "within" be used to refer to something that is inside of a building?
Yes, “within” can be used to refer to something that is inside of a building. For example, if a person says that the cat is within the house, it means that the cat is inside of the house, but not necessarily in any specific room.