until

[ənˈtɪl]

until Definition

  • 1up to (the point in time or the event mentioned)
  • 2before (a specified time)
  • 3used to indicate the relationship between a result and the circumstances that led to it

Using until: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "until" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I will wait until you arrive.

  • Example

    The store is open until 9 pm.

  • Example

    Until recently, I had never traveled outside of my country.

  • Example

    I didn't know how much I loved her until she was gone.

until Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for until

Phrases with until

  • up to and including the present or the time mentioned

    Example

    Until now, I had never tried sushi before.

  • until new information is given or a decision is made

    Example

    The office will be closed until further notice due to the pandemic.

  • for a very long time

    Example

    You can argue with him until the cows come home, but he won't change his mind.

Origins of until

from Old Norse 'und', meaning 'as far as' and 'til', meaning 'to'

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Summary: until in Brief

The conjunction 'until' [ənˈtɪl] indicates a limit in time or event, often used to express a condition or a result. It can be used in phrases like 'until now,' indicating the present moment, and 'until further notice,' indicating an indefinite period. The idiom 'until the cows come home' means for a very long time.

How do native speakers use this expression?