Prepositions

For and since

We use for and since to say how long.

For refers to a period of time.

  • I've worked in this office for three years.
       
now

2008  
for three years
 
2011

Since refers to a point in time.

  • I've worked in this office since 2008.
       
now

since 2008    
2011

For and since are often used with the present perfect to talk about actions that began in the past and continue now.

  • I've lived in this apartment for three years.
    NOT: I live in this apartment for three years.
  • I've lived in this city since last January.
    NOT: I live in this city since last January.