Definition

Noun 1. The length of time that something continues or exists. This refers to the period during which an event, process, or state persists. 2. Continuance in time. This refers to the fact or quality of lasting over a period.

Usage and Examples

• The duration of the movie is two hours and fifteen minutes.
• He was appointed manager for the duration of the project.
• The patient experienced pain for the duration of the procedure.
• We must consider the duration of the contract before signing.

Advanced Usage

• For the duration: This phrase means "for as long as something lasts" or "throughout the entire period."
  • The soldiers were stationed overseas for the duration of the conflict.
• Of short/long/brief duration: These are common collocations describing how long something lasts.
  • His stay was of brief duration.
  • The economic boom was of surprisingly long duration.

Variants and Related Words

• During (preposition): Throughout the course or duration of a period of time.
  • It rained during the night.
• Durable (adjective): Able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage; lasting.
  • Durable goods like refrigerators and cars.

Synonyms

• Length
• Period
• Term
• Span
• Continuance

Antonyms

• Instant
• Moment
• Brevity
• Transience

Related Phrases and Idioms

• For the duration: As mentioned in "Advanced Usage," this is the primary idiomatic phrase.
• Time frame: While not a direct synonym, it is a related concept referring to a specified period of time for an activity or event.

Noun

1. continuance in time
   • the ceremony was of short duration
   • he complained about the length of time required
2. the property of enduring or continuing in time
3. the period of time during which something continues