For the duration

For the duration: A phrase often used colloquially to express weariness and impatience. It had all kinds of applications. Men, for instance, whose relief was long overdue might be heard complaining "Are we going to stop here for the duration?" The expression also had reference to the term of enlistment: "For four years or the duration of the War."[1]

References / notes

  1. Edward Fraser and John Gibbons (1925). Soldier and Sailor Words and Phrases. Routledge, London p.86.

Glossary of words and phrases

The above term is listed in our glossary of words and phrases of the Armed Forces of Great Britain during the Great War. Included are trench slang, service terms, expressions in everyday use, nicknames, the titles and origins of British and Commonwealth Regiments, and warfare in general. These words and phrases are contemporary to the war, which is reflected in the language used. They have been transcribed from three primary sources (see Contents). Feel free to expand upon and improve this content.
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