Usage of 'since' and 'for'

[Liza]

Hi,

I have a question about 'since' and 'for'. I know that the rule is: use 'since' when we mention the beginning of a period, and use 'for' when you talk about the period itself. However, I've met the following two sentences in a textbook, and I just don't understand why it's like this.

1. 'I lived in a flat for the first five years of my life.'
2. 'I've lived in a house since the last seven years.'

I understand why 'for' is used in the first sentences (it's a period), but I just can't see the reason for a 'since' in the second one, becuase I think it's a period, too.

Thanks for your explanation.
Bye
Liza

[Alan]

Hi Liza,

You are right and I fear the textbook is in error. 'Since' has to be used before a point (a starting point) and 'for' before a period of time.

Alan
_________________
English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Subjunctive

[Jamie (K)]

I'm seconding what Alan said. Your textbook is wrong. You're right.