We have fifteen minutes (in which) to eat.

[Tan Elaine]

If we are given fifteen minutes to finish our meal, which sentence should I use? If neither, how should it be worded with 'eat' as the verb?

1. We have fifteen minutes to eat.

2. We have fifteen minutes in which to eat.

Thanks.

 

[5jj]

1. We have fifteen minutes to eat. You will hear this, but I prefer, "We have fifteen minutes to eat in".

2. We have fifteen minutes in which to eat. Fine. It's a little more formal than #1.

 

[emsr2d2]

Number 2 is fine.

I hate to disagree with 5jj but I would not use "in" at the end of sentence 1. I think "We've got 15 minutes to eat" is natural and often used.

You've got 10 minutes to play and then it's time for dinner.
He's got a week to have fun.
You've got 2 minutes to get dressed (or to dress).

 

[Tdol]

I wouldn't use in at the end either, but it sounds natural to me- many would.