student asking question

What's the difference in the nuance of "before sunrise" and "by sunrise"? Why did say "by sunrise" not "before sunrise"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

When used as prepositions, the meaning of "by" and "before" is somewhat similar! However, the general rule is that "before sunset" means that the task must be ready and completed before sunset, whereas "by sunset" can mean the task can be completed at any time up until and including sunset! Ex: Please complete your homework before Monday. => The homework must be ready and completed and ready by this day. Ex: Please complete your homework by Monday. => The homework can be completed on any day up to AND including Monday.

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