within

1. 1
   inside limitspreposition

   Inside the limits or reach of something, such as a distance, an amount, or what you can see.

   Think of it like a circle drawn on a map: inside the line counts.

   The station is within a mile of the house.

   She finished within five seconds of the record.

   UsageSay within a mile of the house, with of before the place.

   Oppositebeyond, outside

   Note
2. 2
   physically insidepreposition

   Inside a place or thing, in a formal style.

   A small silver key lay within the old wooden box.

   The children had to stay within the school gates at lunchtime.

   UsageIn everyday talk, inside is more usual: inside the box.

   Similarinside, in

   Oppositeoutside

   Note
3. 3
   not later thanpreposition

   Before a period of time ends, as in 'within three days'.

   Reply within three days.

   The doctor said I should feel better within a few days.

   UsageWithin a week means before the week ends; in a week usually means after a week.

   Similarinside

   Note
4. 4
   interior (formal)adverb

   Inside, used as an adverb, as in 'go within'.

   We knocked, and a voice called from within.

   The house was dark within.

   UsageMostly in from within or on signs: Apply within.

   Similarinside, indoors

   Oppositeoutside

   Note

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