English Profile

within · preposition

/wɪˈðɪn/Full view

within (TIME)

B1 before a particular period of time has finished

Dictionary examples:

The ambulance arrived within 10 minutes.

This product should be eaten within three days.

Learner example:

I will return it to you within four days. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Tamil)

within (DISTANCE)

B1 less than a particular distance from something

Dictionary examples:

Two-thirds of Californians live within 15 miles of the coast.

The hotel is within easy reach of the airport.

Learner example:

By the way, [the] receptionist told me that the scenery round the lake is very beautiful and that the Butterfly Farm and the monument shown on your map are within easy reach. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

within (LIMIT)

B2 not outside the limits of something

Dictionary examples:

We came within five points of beating them.

The project was completed well within budget.

Learner example:

Similarly [the] visitor has also shown responsibility to remain within [the] limits of the society he is moving [in], so that he cannot cause any hurt or harm to local culture. (International English Language Testing System; B2; Panjabi)

within (INSIDE)

C1 inside an area, group, or system

Dictionary examples:

a dispute within the department

There's a pharmacy within the hospital building.

Learner example:

Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to you, as requested, in order to ensure that the training - whose purpose is to help the staff improve its communications with the other departments within the company - is effective and not just a waste of time. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Greek)

within limits

C2 avoiding behaviour that is extreme or silly

Dictionary example:

You can wear what you want, within limits.

Learner example:

They should be given a choice of food, within limits. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)

within (sb's) reach

C2 possible for someone to achieve

Dictionary example:

Winning the championship suddenly seemed within their reach.

Learner example:

We have decided to take action to prevent further damage being inflicted, and are convinced the task is fully within our reach. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Polish)

within reason

C2 If something is within reason, it is acceptable and possible.

Dictionary example:

We can wear what we like to the office, within reason.

Learner example:

Although this view may seem too harsh and hard-hearted, I believe it is within reason. (International English Language Testing System; C2; Arabic)