period between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'period between' is not grammatically correct.
You could use it if you mean a significant amount of time, for example 'there was a long period between their first and second date'.

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

More than 40 people were killed in a 45-day period between August and September.

Vice

That tricky period between lunch and breakfast.

The Guardian - Sport

But in the period between them, BBC music was becalmed.

The Guardian

They cover the period between mid-2006 and 2010.

The Guardian - Business

"The resting period between heartbeats takes too long randomly.

The New York Times - Sports

Forsey's charge relates to a period between 4 January and 14 January while Palmer's charge relates to a period between 12 January and 5 February.

The Guardian

What happens to families in the period between?

Independent

We are talking about the period between 2014 and 2020.

The Economist

The period between about 1500 and 1800 remains relatively obscure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

NS: But in your negotiations in the period between 1990 and '94.

The Guardian

The period between autumn 2011 and autumn 2015 was the driest in California's history. .

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When specifying a "period between" dates, clearly indicate the start and end points to avoid ambiguity. For example, "the period between January 1st and March 31st" is more precise than "the period between January and March".

Common error

Avoid phrasing that could cause confusion about whether the start or end dates are included in the "period between". For example, stating "the period between Monday and Friday" could be interpreted as excluding Monday and Friday. Instead, specify "from Monday to Friday, inclusive" if you intend to include those days.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "period between" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb to specify a duration linking two points in time. As Ludwig AI points out, it may not always be grammatically flawless but commonly conveys the interval separating two events or dates.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "period between" is used to define a duration or interval separating two points in time. Though Ludwig AI suggests potential grammatical concerns, the phrase is very common across numerous contexts, with a prevalence in news and scientific sources. While alternatives like "interval between" or "timeframe between" can add formality, understanding common usage errors—like unclear endpoints—can increase clarity. In conclusion, while "period between" might not be pristine grammar, it remains a widely understood and accepted way to describe a specific duration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interval between

This alternative focuses on the space or time separating two points.

timeframe between

This suggests a specific period with defined start and end times.

duration from...to...

This highlights the length of time something lasts from a start to an end point.

span between

Implies a continuous extent of time linking two points.

lapse between

Focuses on the passage of time, often implying inactivity or interruption.

gap between

Highlights a discontinuity or break in time or sequence.

interim from...to...

Refers to a temporary period serving as a transition.

the time separating

Directly indicates the period that divides two events.

the stretch from...to...

Emphasizes the length and continuity of time.

intervening time

This alternative emphasizes the time that comes between two events.

FAQs

How can I use "period between" in a sentence?

Use "period between" to describe the duration or interval separating two specific points in time. For example, "The study covered the "period between" 2010 and 2020."

What's a more formal way to say "period between"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "interval between" or "timeframe between". These alternatives provide a similar meaning while maintaining a more professional register.

Which is correct: "period between X and Y" or "period from X to Y"?

Both "period between X and Y" and "period from X to Y" are acceptable. However, "period from X to Y" is generally preferred for its clearer indication of the start and end points of the duration.

What's the difference between "period between" and "duration of"?

"Period between" emphasizes the interval separating two points in time, while "duration of" focuses on the length of time an event lasts. For example, "the "period between" diagnosis and treatment" versus "the "duration of" the treatment."