By now, by then, by tomorrow

[chileno]

Originally Posted by Perikles

Well, it does in that it is in the same category as 'the homework must be done for tomorrow'. It makes it clear that a specific time is required or understood. The 'homework' example is clear because there is an (unstated) time (the lesson tomorrow). The post office letter is fairly clear in that you know that there is a time of day when letters are available. You know the letter will be there by (say) midday, not 18.00.

As for building the wall, it is clear that para mañana needs further info, like a time of day, for it to be unambiguous.

You keep plucking that "for" in there. And it ain't so.

By tomorrow, in this case, means that the letter will arrive sometime between now (if it is possible) and tomorrow. (definitely not after the end of the day)

There is no specific time attached to it.

It is the same as saying "within 24 hours"

[Perikles]

Originally Posted by chileno

You keep plucking that "for" in there. And it ain't so.

OK - the wall will be finished tomorrow does not mean the same as the wall will be finished by tomorrow - there is a difference of up to 24 hours.

[chileno]

Originally Posted by Perikles

OK - the wall will be finished tomorrow does not mean the same as the wall will be finished by tomorrow - there is a difference of up to 24 hours.

hahahaha!