As an expert in the field of linguistics and semantics, I am delighted to provide an in-depth explanation of the phrase "a quarter past" and its usage in the context of time.

In the English language, the term "quarter" is derived from the Latin word "quartarius," which means "fourth part." When we discuss time, "quarter" specifically refers to one-fourth of an hour, which is equivalent to 15 minutes. This concept is widely used in various expressions to denote time intervals.

The phrase "a quarter past" is used to indicate the time that has passed beyond the hour mark. For instance, when we say "a quarter past 6," it means that it is 15 minutes after 6 o'clock. This is a common way to express time in both spoken and written English, especially in countries where the 12-hour clock system is used.

The expression "a quarter past" is part of a larger set of time-telling phrases that include "half past" and "three-quarters past." These phrases are used to describe the time in a more precise manner than simply stating the hour. "Half past" indicates 30 minutes past the hour, while "three-quarters past" indicates 45 minutes past the hour.

It is important to note that there is also the expression "a quarter till," which is the opposite of "a quarter past." When we say "a quarter till 6," it means that there are 15 minutes left until it is 6 o'clock. This phrase is used to indicate the time remaining until the next hour.

Understanding the use of "quarter" in time expressions is crucial for clear communication. It helps to avoid confusion and ensures that the intended time is conveyed accurately. In everyday life, these expressions are particularly useful when scheduling appointments, planning events, or simply discussing the time of day.

In summary, "a quarter past" is a time expression that denotes 15 minutes after the hour. It is part of a system of time expressions that includes "half past" and "three-quarters past," providing a way to communicate time in a precise and easily understood manner. The use of these expressions is an essential aspect of English language proficiency, particularly for those who rely on the 12-hour clock system.

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The word --quarter-- means one-fourth. When we say, --A quarter past 6,-- we mean one-fourth of an hour past 6 o'clock, or 15 minutes past 6. When we say, --A quarter till 6,-- we mean one-fourth of an hour till 6 o'clock, or 15 minutes till 6.read more >>