How long does it take vs how long it takes? Which Is Correct?
When learning English, even the most minor differences in phrasing can cause confusion. “How long does it take” and “how long it takes” are excellent examples of this. While these phrases appear similar, their usage depends on context and sentence structure.
This post will explore the differences and correct usage of these two phrases. With clear explanations, practical examples, and grammar tips, you’ll learn how to use them confidently in everyday English.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Basics
Both “how long does it take” and “how long it takes” are related to time duration. However, their difference lies in how they function within sentences. Knowing their roles can avoid grammatical errors and make your speech more straightforward.
- “How long does it take?” โ A question phrased to ask about time.
- “How long it takes” โ Often used in statements and subordinate clauses rather than direct questions.
Understanding these distinctions is the foundation for correct use.
Breaking Down “How long does it take”
This phrase is a direct question used to inquire about the time required for an activity or event. It requires a question mark at the end and follows the auxiliary verb format.
Example Questions:
- “How long does it take to drive to the airport?”
- “How long does it take to cook pasta?”
These questions explicitly ask for the duration of different actions.
Sentence Structure:
- Question Format = “How long” + auxiliary verb (“does”) + subject (“it”) + main verb (“take”) + optional context.
What Does “How long it takes” Mean?
Unlike the former, “how long it takes” is mainly used in statements or subordinate clauses. It provides extra information about the time required without directly asking.
Example Sentences:
- “I know how long it takes to get there.”
- “He explained how long it takes to learn a new skill.”
Here, “how long it takes” works as a statement adding context rather than a direct inquiry.
Sentence Structure:
- Non-question = Subject + knows/explains/etc. + “how long it takes” + optional addition.
Grammar Rules for Correct Usage
How to Use Each Phrase
- Questions (How long does it take):
Use this when directly asking someone the duration of an activity.
- Statements (How long it takes):
This works in sentences that describe or explain time-related details.
Key Tips:
- Avoid interchanging them in the wrong contexts.
- Remember auxiliary verbs (“does”) are mandatory for questions.
Examples:
- Correct Question: “How long does it take to read this book?”
- Correct Statement: “She told me how long it takes to read this book.”
Where and When to Use “How long does it take”
Appropriate Contexts:
- Travel:
“How long does it take to fly to Tokyo?”
- Work:
“How long does it take to finish this task?”
- Everyday Life:
“How long does it take to bake a cake?”
Such questions are practical and situational, making them perfect for conversations.
Situations for Using “How long it takes”
Alternatively, “how long it takes” fits naturally into statements that share or describe information.
Practical Uses:
- Planning:
“Knowing how long it takes to commute will help us plan better.”
- Advice:
“They told me how long it takes to recover from this illness.”
- Reviews:
“Customer complaints mention how long it takes for delivery.”
This subtle difference emphasizes information without forming a direct question.
Sentence Structures You Should Know
Understanding sentence patterns can improve your fluency:
- “How long does it take?” Questions:
“How long does it take to + verb + object?”
Example: “How long does it take to build a bridge?”
- “How long it takes” Statements:
“I know how long it takes to + verb + object.”
Example: “I know how long it takes to prepare dinner.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakes:
- Mixing up auxiliary verbs like “does” or dropping them altogether.
Wrong: “How long does it take to get there?”
Correct: “How long does it take to get there?”
- Using incorrect tenses in subordinate phrases.
Wrong: “She knows how long it takes.”
Correct: “She knows how long it takes.”
Practical Examples for Everyday Conversations
Here’s how they look in real-world usage:
- Question:
“How long does it take to drive downtown in the evening?”
- Statement:
“I can’t tell you how long it takes during rush hour.”
Comparisons Between the Two Phrases
While similar, they serve different purposes:
Phrase Situation Used Example
How long does it take Questions “How long does it take to learn Spanish?”
How long it takes Statements/Subordinate Clauses, “She knows how long it takes to learn Spanish.”
Understanding their unique roles ensures precision.
Tips for English Learners
For non-native speakers, distinguishing grammar can be challenging. Try the following:
- Practice pairing the phrases with everyday activities.
Questions: “How long does it take to…”
Statements: “I know how long it takes to…”
- Ask native speakers for feedback on usage.
Common Questions Answered
Addressing frequent concerns:
- Can “how long does it take” be informal?
Yes, phrases like “How long will it take?” work for casual chats.
- Do they work interchangeably?
No, their usage depends significantly on context.
Real-World Scenarios for Practice
Practice these scenarios to build confidence:
- Asking about flight durations.
- Explaining work deadlines.
- Planning trips with friends.
Expanding Vocabulary with Related Phrases
To enrich your English, explore alternatives:
- “What’s the duration?”
- “How much time does it need?”
These variations can improve conversational variety.
FAQs
What is the difference between “How long does it take” and “How long it takes”?
How long does it take?” is a question used to ask about the duration of an activity or process. On the other hand, “How long it takes” is a statement or part of an indirect question that describes the amount of time required for something.
When should I use “How long does it take”?
A: Use “How long does it take” when you are directly asking a question about the duration of an action or event.
Example:
“How long does it take to travel to London?”
When should I use “How long it takes”?
A: Use “How long it takes” in indirect questions or statements where you are not directly asking but rather describing or reporting the time required.
Examples:
“Can you tell me how long it takes to travel to London?”
“I know how long it takes to complete this task.”
Why is “does” used in “How long does it take”?
The word “does” is included because the sentence is a direct question in the present Tense. “Does” functions as the auxiliary verb that helps form the Question.
Is it wrong to say, “How long does it take?” in a question?
Yes, it is incorrect to use “How long it takes” in a direct question. Direct questions require an auxiliary verb (“does,” “did,” or “will”) to maintain correct grammar.
Incorrect: “How long it takes to fly to Paris?”
Correct: “How long does it take to fly to Paris?”
Can both phrases be used in the same sentence?
A: Yes, both can be used in a single sentence when transitioning between a question and a statement.
Example:
“How long does it take to finish the training, and do you know how long it takes on average?”
What are some examples of indirect questions using “How long it takes”?
A: Here are a few examples:
“I’m curious about how long it takes to deliver the package.”
“Could you explain how long it takes to master a musical instrument?”
Is tense important when using these phrases?
A: Yes, Tense is crucial. Use “does” for general present tense questions and adjust the auxiliary verb based on the Tense you are using.
Examples:
Past Tense: “How long did it take to drive here?”
Future Tense: “How long will it take to complete the project?”
What are common mistakes with these phrases?
Common mistakes include:
Omitting the auxiliary verb “does” in questions.
Incorrect: “How long does it take to bake a cake?”
Correct: “How long does it take to bake a cake?”
Using “How long it takes” as if it were a question.
Incorrect: “How long it takes to read this book?”
Correct: “How long does it take to read this book?”
Can “How long does it take” be answered with “How long it takes”?
A: Not exactly. You can rephrase the answer using “How long it takes,” but it’s more common to give a specific time duration as the reply.
Example:
Question: “How long does it take to walk to the park?”
Answer: “It takes about 20 minutes.” (Or, “I know how long it takesโit’s about 20 minutes.”)
Why is it important to understand the difference?
Knowing the difference ensures your sentences are grammatically correct and convey your message precisely. It also boosts your confidence when speaking or writing in English.
By practicing and applying these tips, you’ll quickly master the usage of both “How long does it take” and “How long it takes.“
