ENGLISH
REFERENCE

in the winter

prep. phr..
A1 Beginner Oxford

prep. phr.. This phrase tells you that something happens during the cold season of the year.

prep. phr.. A prepositional phrase of time indicating that an action or state occurs during the winter season.


SIMPLE

We wear warm coats in the winter.

CONTEXTUAL

Many animals sleep for a long time in the winter to save energy.

COMPLEX

In the winter, the stark, leafless branches of the ancient oaks create a dramatic silhouette against the pale sky.

Usage

Used to specify that an event or state happens during the winter season, often habitually.

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'on' for specific days and 'at' for specific times; 'in' is used for longer periods like seasons, months, and years.

Pitfall

We wear hats on the winter.We wear hats in the winter.Use the preposition 'in' for seasons, not 'on' or 'at'.

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