Distinguishing time prepositions used with the Accusative in German

Temporal prepositions (temporale Präpositionen) are prepositions that indicate a specific point in time or a time period. In German, there are 5 types of temporal prepositions that take the accusative case (Akkusativ). They are: um, gegen, bis, für and über. So how does the usage of these 5 prepositions differ from one another? Let's explore that together in this article!!!

bis

Bis wann?

Indicates the end point of a period of time. Bis takes the Akkusativ when followed by a noun without an article. 

1. Bis wann wollen ihre Gäste bleiben?

- Unsere Gäste wollen nur noch bis Freitag bleiben. 

(When do your guests want to stay until?

- Our guests only want to stay until Friday.)

für

(Für) wie lange?

Indicates a future period of time.

1. Wie lange bleiben Sie in Kiel?

- Ich bleibe nur für drei Tage in Kiel. 

(How long are you staying in Kiel?

- I am only staying in Kiel for three days.)

über

Wie lange?

Indicates a period of time. Carries the meaning of more than, longer than (mehr als/länger)

1. Wie lange wartest du schon auf mich?

- Ich warte schon über eine Stunde auf dich.

(How long have you been waiting for me?

- I have already been waiting for you for over an hour.)