a short time

Meaning

This phrase refers to a brief duration or a small amount of time. It is used to describe events that finish quickly or situations that do not last very long.

Examples

• The meeting lasted for only a short time.

  The meeting lasted for only a short time.

• After a short time, they decided to leave the party.

  After a short time, they decided to leave the party.

• I will be ready in a short time, just give me five minutes.

  I will be ready in a short time, just give me five minutes.

• He lived abroad for a short time during college.

  He lived abroad for a short time during college.

• We only have a short time to finish this project.

  We only have a short time to finish this project.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I will be there in short time.

  ✓ I will be there in a short time.

  Learners often omit the indefinite article 'a' before 'short time'.

• ✗ We waited for a little time.

  ✓ We waited for a short time.

  'A little time' can mean some time, but 'a short time' is the standard way to express a brief duration.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The power went out for ___ last night.

  💡 It was only for a few minutes.

  Show answer

  a short time

• He worked there for only ___ before quitting.

  💡 Not many days or months.

  Show answer

  a short time