How to Use Prepositions in English

What Are Prepositions

Prepositions are small but essential words in English that help establish relationships between other words in a sentence. They show how a noun or pronoun is connected to other parts of the sentence, such as location, time, direction, and more.

Common prepositions include:

In, On, At, By, For, To, With, About, Between, Under, Over, Through, During

This guide will explain how to use prepositions correctly with examples, provide explanations for each, and give you practice exercises to improve your skills.

The Role of Prepositions in English

Prepositions link nouns, pronouns, or phrases to other words in a sentence. They indicate place, time, movement, or other relationships. Understanding prepositions will make your sentences clearer and more accurate.

Types of Prepositions

a. Prepositions of Time

Prepositions of time help explain when something happens.

In: Used for months, years, centuries, and long periods.

Example: I was born in 1990.

Example: She will arrive in January.

On: Used for days and dates.

Example: The meeting is on Monday.

Example: We went on vacation on 1st July.

At: Used for precise times and specific moments.

Example: I’ll meet you at 5 PM.

Example: She wakes up at dawn.

b. Prepositions of Place

Prepositions of place tell us where something is located.

In: Used for enclosed spaces, countries, cities, and rooms.

Example: He lives in Canada.

Example: The keys are in the drawer.

On: Used for surfaces, streets, or days.

Example: The book is on the table.

Example: She lives on Elm Street.

At: Used for specific points or places.

Example: I’m at the office.

Example: She’s waiting at the bus stop.

How to Use Prepositions in English

c. Prepositions of Movement

Prepositions of movement describe direction or movement toward something.

To: Indicates movement towards a destination.

Example: She is going to the store.

Example: I’m flying to Paris tomorrow.

Into: Describes movement inside a place or space.

Example: She walked into the room.

Example: He jumped into the pool.

Onto: Indicates movement towards a surface.

Example: She climbed onto the roof.

Example: The cat jumped onto the table.

Common Mistakes with Prepositions

Prepositions can be tricky because they don’t always directly translate between languages. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using the wrong preposition for time:

Incorrect: I will meet you at Monday.

Correct: I will meet you on Monday.

Misusing prepositions with verbs:

Incorrect: She apologized for me.

Correct: She apologized to me.

Confusing prepositions of place and movement:

Incorrect: He is sitting on the bus.

Correct: He is sitting in the bus.

How to Form Sentences with Prepositions

Prepositions are usually followed by a noun or pronoun to form a prepositional phrase. Here’s how to use them in sentences:

Subject + Verb + Preposition + Noun

Example Sentences

She is in the kitchen.

We are going to the park.

I will meet you at the café.

Practice Exercises

Now, let’s put your knowledge of prepositions to the test! Fill in the blanks with the correct preposition.

The book is _______ the table.

She’s going _______ the airport at 6 PM.

He lives _______ New York.

The keys are _______ my bag.

We’ll meet you _______ the restaurant.

Answers

Conclusion: Mastering Prepositions for Better English

Prepositions are essential for constructing clear and accurate sentences in English. By understanding how to use prepositions for time, place, and movement,

you’ll improve your communication skills and sound more fluent in your everyday speech and writing.

Boost your vocabulary skills with challenging quizzes