English uses the preposition 'for' + a numeral + a noun to express a span of time.
 

By contrast, Germans just use the numeral + the noun. In this case, 'for' is understood.
 

If the noun is masculine, such as Augenblick (moment), Tag (day), and Monat (month), use the form einen to express one of these. These phrases are in the accusative.
 

If a noun is neuter, such as Jahr (year), use the form ein.
 

If a noun is feminine, such as Woche (week), use the form eine.
 

Remember to stress the forms einen, ein, eine a little to emphasize that they are numerals.

Nouns Denoting Spans of Time

Here is a list of nouns for spans of time, illustrating relevant forms.
 

Expressing Past Points in Time with vor

The most important English word signaling a point of time in the past is 'ago.'
 

German uses the preposition vor + numeral + noun to express a point of time in the past. 'Vor' takes the dative and the plural nouns following it end in -n. Vor precedes the time phrase.
 

Expressing Future Points in Time with in

The most important English word signaling a point of time in the future is in.
 

German also uses the preposition in + numeral + noun this way. In takes the dative and the plural nouns following it end in -n.
 

Spans of Time Extending to the Present

To express a span of time extending to the present, use schon plus the accusative or seit plus the dative:

SCHON + ACCUSATIVE
 

SEIT + DATIVE
 

Expressions of Time with Adjectives

You can express specific points in time by adjectives such as nächst- (next), letzt- (last). The nouns are in the accusative.

POINT:
 

POINT:
 

Examples of Spans of Time

• Ich bin seit gestern in Frankfurt und möchte mich mit Ihnen treffen.
• Nee, ich bin ein alter Mainzer, aber ich wohne seit 40 Jahren in Frankfurt.
• Es geht mir schon seit zwei Tagen so.
• Ich bin erst vor ein paar Tagen nach Deutschland gezogen, um eine neue Position in meiner Firma zu übernehmen.