Definition

A word used to indicate that something will happen or be true up to a certain point in time or event.

Example

You cannot leave until your work is finished.

Conversation

Are you going to stay at the party until it ends?

Yeah, I think I'll hang out until then.

I might leave a bit earlier, but I’ll wait until my friend arrives.

That makes sense; it's always better to stay until everyone is together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

Up to the time of something happening; before a certain point in time.

Example

We waited until the rain stopped before leaving.

Conversation

Are you planning to stay here until the party ends?

Yeah, I think it’ll be fun to hang out a bit longer.

I might join you then; I don’t want to leave until it gets really lively.

Root Explanation

Until → This word originates from Old English 'untill', which means 'up to' or 'to'. It describes a point in time or an event that continues up to a certain limit or moment.

Memory Tip

Think of 'up to' as a way to remember that 'until' refers to a time or event that lasts up to a specific point.

Visually Confused Words