Can "en" ever express waiting?

Tom RuneC1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

Can "en" ever express waiting?

I understand the examples given in this lecture (although I'd have like "en" to be contrasted with "pendant" as well), but can "en" ever mean "in" as in "I'll leave in one hour"? Or should I forget completely about using "en" in that sense?
Asked 6 years ago
ChrisC1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

I'll leave in one hour is "Je pars dans une heure."
I believe that "en" cannot be used in this context.

-- Chris.

AurélieKwiziq team memberCorrect answer

Bonjour Tom and Chris !

Actually, "Je pars en une heure" would be closer to something like "It's taking me an hour to leave.", in a very awkward way.

You cannot use en in the sense of in + [a future duration], it will always be dans :)

Bonne journée !

ChrisC1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor
"Je pars en une heure" would mean I leave within one hour. -- Chris (not a native speaker).
Tom RuneC1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor
Yes, that makes sense. Thank you.

Can "en" ever express waiting?

I understand the examples given in this lecture (although I'd have like "en" to be contrasted with "pendant" as well), but can "en" ever mean "in" as in "I'll leave in one hour"? Or should I forget completely about using "en" in that sense?

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your French level for FREE

Test your French to the CEFR standard

Find your French level
I'll be right with you...