Representing when, where, how and why
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Representing when | page 7 of 11 |
Using prepositional phrases: in time and on time
The prepositions in and on can be used with the word time, but with different meanings.
In time refers to the period of time leading up to the start of an action or event (the deadline):
Make sure you arrive in time for the start of the show. (ie "before the show starts")
On time is used to refer to the deadline itself:
The reception stars at 7 pm. Please be on time. (ie "be there at 7 pm")
Note that we use in, not on, in the expression in time for an event:
The committee would have considered the matter in time for the new school year. (SCMP 21/8/92)
Introduction
Using prepositional phrases: in time and on time
