last

The opposite of "first" is "last." When this word is an adjective, it describes something or someone that comes after all others. Today, however, I want you to learn how to use "last" when talking about time. In this case, it’s a verb:

• A: How long did the movie last?
• B: It lasted two hours.

The movie took two hours. It was two hours long. It was a two-hour movie. The word "last" can refer to duration or length of time. Here are some more examples:

• Food lasts for a long time if you keep it in the freezer.
• He didn’t last long at that job. He quit after just two weeks.
• This flight should last for only 40 minutes.
• How long can you last without food?
• This movie is lasting too long. When does it end?
• You won’t last for more than three days without water.
• Try to make this ice cream last. Don’t eat it all right away.
• Your car will last a long time if you take care of it.  

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Published on April 24, 2012.