Hey!
I’m Latika, a writer at Genlish. As you know, I am here to share grammar and other language-related tips and tricks with you to simplify the process of learning English.
Yesterday, we discussed the difference between weak and week. On similar lines, I am going to discuss another set of confusing words today – some time, sometime and sometimes. Let’s begin!
Sometime
As an adverb, sometime means “at an unspecified time in the future”.
Example:
- I’ll come over to your house sometime.
- The launch date of the new model will be announced sometime soon.
- I need to visit the dentist sometime today.
Some Time
Some time (two words) refers to a span of time, usually a long period of time.
Example: I need some time to finish the assignment.
Here, we are talking about a span of time, hence some time should be two words. Let’s look at some more examples:
- Sheila needs some time to think.
- Ramesh will stay in Paris for some time.
In the above statements, a span of time is mentioned – it may be several days or even a month. Hence some time is the right word.
Sometime versus Some Time
- Sometime refers to an unspecified point of time in the future whereas some time refers to a time period or time span.
Incorrect: I will be there in sometime.
Correct: I will be there in some time.
( a time span is being mentioned)
Sometimes
Sometimes (one word) means “every now and then” or “occasionally” .
For example:
- I get late sometimes.
- Sometimes, I wonder if I did the right thing.
- She gives me a lift sometimes.
I am sure this blog helped you understand the difference between these words. Use them wisely the next time you write.
In my next blog, I will discuss the usage of I, Me, Myself and My. Keep reading!