Editor's Corner

Good morning to you!

You can put today’s Editor’s Corner topic under the heading of “keep it simple.” I’ve noticed an uptick in the number of times people use the word within when they could, and probably should, use the shorter, sweeter word, in.

Sure, in and within are typically used interchangeably, but for those who like to know the rules and enjoy the subtle nuances, there is a difference. Want to know what it is? I’ve got the scoop for you.

In most cases, you can usually use the shorter choice: in. We use in for all of the following situations:

• To show something definite: The keys are in my bag.
• To show inclusion: My son is in the Coast Guard.
• As a substitute for into: They all got in the boat.

The only time you need to use within is when you do not want to clarify a definite time frame or a definite location or when you’re talking about a theoretical boundary. We definitely need some examples here. Use within for the following situations:

• To show an indefinite time: Please get back to me within a few days.
• To show an indefinite location: I’ll be waiting for you somewhere within the lobby of the theater.
• To show a theoretical boundary: I can’t function within those parameters.

That’s about all I have to say on the subject. The end of this email, and my concluding remark, is within reach. 😊

To summarize, I think you’ll find that you can almost always use in.

Enjoy the rest of your day.

Donna Bradley Burcher |Technical Editor, Advisory | jack henry

Pronouns she/her/hers

9660 Granite Ridge Drive, San Diego CA 92123

Symitar Documentation Services

About Editor’s Corner

Editor’s Corner keeps your communication skills sharp by providing information on grammar, punctuation, JHA style, and all things English. As editors, we spend our days reading, researching, and revising other people’s writing. We love to spend a few extra minutes to share what we learn with you and keep it fun while we’re doing it.

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