When to Use Till and Until? Meaning, Rules, and Examples
| Word | Formality | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Till | Informal | Up to a certain point in time | I will wait till 5 pm. |
| Until | Formal | Up to a certain point in time | Wait here until I return. |
What Is the Difference Between Till and Until?
The primary difference between till and until is their level of formality. Both words have the same meaning—"up to a point in time." "Till" is more informal and used in everyday speech. "Until" is seen as more formal and is preferred in writing or official situations.
Till vs Until: Rules and Usage
Both "till" and "until" can be used as prepositions or conjunctions before actions or moments in time. Choose "until" in formal writing or instructions. Use "till" in spoken English, messages, or informal notes. Do not use both together in one sentence, as in "till until."
Common Rules for Using Till and Until
- Use "till" or "until" before a specific time or event.
- "Until" often starts or connects clauses in formal writing.
- "Till" is never wrong, but may sound casual in a report or exam answer.
- Never use "till" and "until" together.
- Both words work as prepositions ("till morning") and conjunctions ("wait until he arrives").
Till and Until: Sentence Examples
Here are examples showing the difference between till and until in sentences. These will help you use each correctly in your writing and speaking tasks.
| Example with "Till" | Example with "Until" |
|---|---|
| The library is open till 6 pm. | He reads until he falls asleep. |
| Stay here till I call you. | She cannot leave until the work is done. |
| The shop will remain closed till Monday. | Don't eat anything until the test is over. |
| I practiced till my voice was tired. | Wait here until your turn comes. |
Common Mistakes Using Till and Until
Many students mix up "till," "until," and "'til." Remember, "till" is not a short form of "until." Both are correct words. "'Til" is a rare abbreviation and is not preferred in exams or official writing.
- Incorrect: I will wait till until you come.
- Incorrect: I will wait til you come. (Use "till" or "until")
- Correct: I will wait till you come.
- Correct: I will wait until you come.
Practice Questions on Till and Until
Test your understanding with these questions. This section will help you prepare for exams or daily English use.
- Fill in the blanks with "till" or "until":
- I will not sleep ______ I finish my homework.
- Stay here ______ I return.
- No one leaves ______ the bell rings.
- Answers: (until, till, until)
Real-Life Scenarios for Till vs Until
You will use "till" and "until" in your school, during spoken English practice, and in exams. For example, teachers might say, "Do not talk until you are asked." Your friends may say, "Wait here till I come back." In competitive exams, instructions use "until" for clarity.
Quick Tips to Remember
- Use "until" for formal writing and exam answers.
- Use "till" for everyday speech and casual messages.
- Both words mean "up to a point in time."
- Do not use both words together in one sentence.
- For other prepositions of time, visit Preposition of Time at Vedantu.
Related English Grammar Topics
- Learn about Introduction to Preposition
- Understand Order of Words in a Sentence
- Review all prepositions in English
- Know how "till" and "until" act as conjunctions at Introduction to Conjunctions
In summary, the difference between till and until is mostly about formality. Both words mean "up to a certain time" and can often be interchanged. Use "until" in formal and written contexts. Prefer "till" in informal speech. Practising their usage will improve your exam results and spoken English skills. Vedantu offers many grammar resources to support your learning journey.
