The expressions “by next week” and “within next week” both refer to time frames, but they have slightly different meanings:
- By next week: This means no later than the end of next week. The action or event must be completed before the end of next week, but it can happen at any time before then. It suggests a specific deadline.
- Example: “I will finish the report by next week.” (The report will be done at any point before next week ends.)
- Within next week: This means at any time during next week, but before the end of the week. It indicates a time frame that includes the entire week, but the action could occur at any point within it.
- Example: “I will finish the report within next week.” (The report will be done sometime during next week, not necessarily by the end of it.)
In short:
- By next week is a more specific deadline before the end of next week.
- Within next week allows for flexibility and means any time during the entire week.
