What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
in
Example
The cat is in the box. [in: preposition]
Example
I am in a good mood today. [in: adjective]
Example
I am in a meeting right now. [in: adverb]
during
Example
During the movie, I fell asleep. [during: preposition]
Example
I got a phone call during dinner. [during: preposition]
Example
During the summer, I like to go swimming. [during: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
In is more commonly used than during in everyday language, as it has a wider range of uses and can be used with different verb tenses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between in and during?
Both in and during are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
