Vocabulary practice for the Cambridge PET exam
We use 'for' and 'since' to talk about the passing of time but do you know the difference between them?
Look at these sentences. Pay attention to the words in bold and try to work out when we use 'for' and when we use 'since'.
I studied Spanish for 3 years.
We've lived here since we got married.
I haven't seen Steve since last summer.
Now try the quiz below to check your ideas.
Complete each of the following sentences using 'for' or 'since':
For each question, complete the second sentence so that it means the
same as the first.
Use no more than three words.
1. The last time I saw Sarah was at university.
I have not ........................................ university.
2. I last did a practice test 3 weeks ago.
I haven't done a practice test .........................................
3. It's been ages since you did the washing up.
You haven't done any washing up ........................................
time.
4. He started learning the guitar 4 years ago.
He has been learning the guitar ........................................
.
5. Ben last spoke Italian on holiday.
Ben has not ........................................ he was on holiday.
6. When did you last have a holiday?
How long is it ........................................ had a holiday.
Need more practice in 'for' and 'since'? Think about things you have been doing for some time or haven't done for a while. Write sentences using 'for' and 'since'.
* I've been learning English for 2 years.
* I've been living in Madrid since 2008.
* I haven't had any hobbies for a long time.
* I haven't done an English exam since I was at school.