Location and period prepositions (между, около, во время)

"Between": между

To say that something is located "between" two things or people, use the preposition между. It always requires the Instrumental case.

This is just an argument between the brothers.
Это просто спор между братьями.

"Near": около

To describe a location "near", "close to", or "around" something, use the preposition около. This preposition requires the Genitive case.

He was standing near the exit.
Он стоял около выхода.

"During": во время

When you want to specify that an action happens "during" a specific event or time period, use the phrase во время. Just like около, it requires the Genitive case.

He fell asleep during the operation.
Он уснул во время операции.

Abstract Locations and Times

These prepositions aren't just for physical spots on a map. You will frequently see them used for abstract relationships, like a difference between two concepts, or a pause during a process.

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