duration
UK/dju'reiʃәn/US
IELTSTOEFLGREA2
Definitions
n.
The length of time that something lasts or continues
持续时间，期间
Root Breakdown
Root-deriveddur (to last) + -ation (act/state) = the state of lasting, i.e., how long something goes on. It's the neutral, measurable side of the root: pure length of time, with none of the hardship that 'endure' carries.
Root dur still carries 9 more wordsUsage Guide
Note the fixed phrase 'for the duration' (= until something ends, often a war or crisis): 'They stayed in the shelter for the duration.' In everyday speech 'duration' sounds formal/technical — in casual talk people say 'how long' instead ('How long is the movie?' not 'What is the duration of the movie?').
Example Sentences
- 1.
The course has a duration of six weeks.
- 2.
Please remain seated for the duration of the flight.
- 3.
Scientists measured the duration of each earthquake.