"for how long" vs "For the nth time?"

Question

"for how long" vs "For the nth time?"

The phrases 'for how long' and 'for the nth time' are not directly comparable as they serve different purposes. 'For how long' is used to inquire about the duration of an action or event, while 'for the nth time' is used to indicate the repetition of an action. They are both correct in their respective contexts.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

This phrase is used to ask about the length of time that something will last or has lasted. It is often followed by a verb or action.

Examples:

For how long have you been studying English?
I wonder for how long the concert will last.
Can you tell me for how long the store will be open?
She asked for how long the movie would be.
Do you know for how long the meeting will take?

This phrase is used to emphasize the repetition of an action or event, with 'nth' representing an unspecified number in a sequence. It is often used in expressions of frustration or exasperation.

Examples:

He's late for the nth time this week!
I've told you for the nth time to clean your room.
She forgot her keys for the nth time.
I'm explaining this for the nth time.
For the nth time, please pay attention.

Answer 1

for how long

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to inquire about the duration of an action or event.

Answer 2

For the nth time?

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate the repetition of an action, with 'nth' representing an unspecified number in a sequence.

"for how long" vs "For the nth time?"

for how long

For the nth time?

Related Comparisons