Quarter Past: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Quarter Past” mean?

"Quarter past" means the time when the minute hand on a clock is pointing at the number 3, indicating that 15 minutes have passed since the hour.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I'll meet you at the cafe at quarter past 2.

Example

The train is scheduled to depart at quarter past 4.

Example

Don't be late, the meeting starts at quarter past 9

Is “Quarter Past” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Quarter Past” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Quarter Past” effectively in context?

You can use "Quarter Past" to indicate a specific time when the minute hand on a clock is pointing at the number 3, indicating that 15 minutes have passed since the hour. For example, if you want to meet someone at 2:15, you can say, 'I'll meet you at the cafe at "quarter past" 2.'

• 1. Meeting someone

  I'll meet you at the cafe at quarter past 2.

• 2. Transportation

  The train is scheduled to depart at quarter past 4.

• 3. Punctuality

  Don't be late, the meeting starts at quarter past 9.

Similar phrases to “Quarter Past”:

Half Past

Refers to the time when the minute hand on a clock is pointing at the number 6, indicating that 30 minutes have passed since the hour.

Example

The movie starts at half past 7.

Quarter To

Refers to the time when the minute hand on a clock is pointing at the number 9, indicating that 15 minutes are left until the next hour.

Example

We need to leave soon, it's quarter to 5.

Top of the Hour

Refers to the exact hour, when the minute hand on a clock is pointing at the number 12.

Example

The webinar will start at top of the hour.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Quarter Past” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Quarter Past" is unknown.

Is “Quarter Past” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Quarter Past" is a common expression used in everyday conversation to indicate a specific time. It is widely understood and used by native English speakers.

What tone does “Quarter Past” have?

"Quarter Past" conveys a neutral tone. It is a straightforward way to indicate a specific time without any additional connotations or emotions.

Can “Quarter Past” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Quarter Past" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a standard expression for indicating time and can be used in various contexts, such as casual conversations, business meetings, or written correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to indicate a specific time. For example, 'I'll meet you at the cafe at "quarter past" 2.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time for the meeting, it's "quarter past"!' to imply that it is already 15 minutes past the hour.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• 15 minutes past
• 15 after
• 15 past the hour

Antonyms

• quarter to
• 15 minutes to