FOR, SINCE

We use the preposition for to say how long something occurs.

We use the preposition since to say when something started.

They have been waiting in line for 2 hours.

They have been waiting in line since 1 pm.

He has worked in this restaurant for 5 weeks.

He has worked in this restaurant since November.

Since can only be used with perfect tenses (past perfect, present perfect continuous, etc.).

For can be used with all tenses.

He worked on his homework for three hours.

She will jog for 2 hours tonight.

He has been working since 7 pm.


For, since questions

  1. What’s your most prized possession? How long have you had it?
  2. Do you play a sport? How long have you played it?
  3. How long have you been a fan of your favorite singer or group?
  4. What’s the longest time you’ve slept?
  5. How long have you had your watch?
  6. What’s the longest amount of time you’ve spent alone?
  7. How long have you had your phone?
  8. How long have you been awake today?
  9. How long has your country been a country?
  10. How long have you been a student here?
  11. What’s one of your hobbies? How long have you been doing it?
  12. What piece of clothing have you had the longest? How long have you had it?
  13. How long have you had your shoes?
  14. How long has the leader of your country been in power?
  15. How long have you had your TV?
  16. Who is your favorite sports team? How long have you been a fan?
  17. What’s your favorite restaurant? How long has it been open? How long have you been going to it?