English Reference
preposition · adverb · adjective

within

prep. · adv. · adj.
US /wɪˈðɪn/ UK /wɪðˈɪn/ with·in

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    prep.inside a specific area, building, or object.

    prep.situated inside the physical limits or boundaries of a space.

    Simple

    The guests stayed within the hotel grounds for the entire weekend.

    In context

    The ancient ruins are located within the city walls, protected from modern development by strict local conservation laws.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    prep.before a certain amount of time has passed.

    prep.occurring before the end of a specified period of time.

    Simple

    You should receive a reply to your email within three working days.

    In context

    The emergency services arrived within minutes of the call, demonstrating the efficiency of the new dispatch system.

    duringinside of
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    prep.inside the limits of what is possible, allowed, or expected.

    prep.occurring inside the scope, range, or reach of a particular power, ability, or set of rules.

    Simple

    The project was completed within the original budget.

    In context

    The court ruled that the minister had acted within his legal powers when he signed the executive order.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adv.inside a building or a person's mind or body.

    adv.in or into the interior of a place or entity; often used to describe internal thoughts or feelings.

    Simple

    The house looked old, but within, it was modern and bright.

    In context

    Though he appeared calm to his colleagues, he felt a great deal of anxiety within.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical Law

    adj.mentioned or contained in the document you are currently reading.

    adj.referring to content or rulings contained in the present document or legal context.

    Simple

    The terms and conditions within are subject to change without notice.

    In context

    The petitioner seeks to challenge the specific administrative findings within, arguing that the evidence was misinterpreted by the lower court.

    Usage

    Usually placed after the noun it modifies or used in specific legal phrasing.


From Middle English withinne, withinnen, from Old English wiþinnan; equivalent to with + in.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old English wiþinnan
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated