What Is a Preposition? Unlock the Secret of Sentences

Published: 15 Feb 2025

Did you know that tiny words like ‘at’ or ‘on’ can completely change a sentence’s meaning? Prepositions may be small, but they play a powerful role in grammar. Briefly explain that prepositions are small but important words that show the relationship between things.

What is a preposition?

A preposition is a word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other parts of a sentence. It helps explain where, when, or how something happens.

Example:
“The cat is under the chair.”

Table of Content

What is a preposition?
Types of Prepositions:
Common Mistakes with Prepositions
Conclusion:
FAQS:

Types of Prepositions:

Prepositions are small words that tell us where, when, or how something happens. Let’s learn the different types of prepositions in a simple way.

1. Prepositions of Place ?

These prepositions tell us the location of something.
Examples: in, on, under, near, behind, between
Sentences:

The book is on the table.
The cat is under the chair.

2. Prepositions of Time ?

These prepositions tell us when something happens.
Examples: in, on, at, before, after, since
Sentences:

We have a holiday on Sunday.
She sleeps at night.

3. Prepositions of Direction ?

These prepositions show movement.
Examples: to, from, into, out of, towards.

Sentences:

He is going to school.
The ball rolled into the box.

4. Prepositions of Manner ?

These prepositions tell us how something happens.
Examples: by, with, like, as
Sentences:

She wrote with a pencil.
He runs like a cheetah.

5. Prepositions of Reason ?

These prepositions show the cause of something.
Examples: because of, due to, for
Sentences:

I was late because of the rain.
She cried for her lost toy.

4. Why Are Prepositions Important?

Explain that prepositions make sentences clear.
Without prepositions, sentences might not make sense.
Example:
- With preposition: “The dog is under the table.”
- Without preposition: “The dog the table.” (This does not make sense.)

Common Mistakes with Prepositions

Prepositions are small but important words. Sometimes, we make mistakes while using them. Let’s learn about Three common preposition mistakes and how to fix them.

1. Using ‘in’ Instead of ‘on’

Rule: Use ‘in’ for large areas and ‘on’ for surfaces.Wrong: The book is in the table.Correct: The book is on the table.

Wrong: I live on London.
Correct: I live in London.

2. Confusing ‘at’ and ‘on’ for Time

Rule: Use ‘at’ for exact times and ‘on’ for days/dates.
Wrong: We go to school on 8 o’clock.
Correct: We go to school at 8 o’clock.

Wrong: My birthday is at Monday.
Correct: My birthday is on Monday.

3. Wrong Use of ‘to’ After ‘Reach’

Rule: Do not use ‘to’ after ‘reach.’
Wrong: I reached to the school on time.
Correct: I reached the school on time.

Conclusion:

So, guys, it’s time to wrap up. In this article, we’ve covered the Preposition in detail.Prepositions may be small words, but they play a big role in making sentences clear and meaningful. They help us understand where, when, and how something happens. By learning different types of prepositions and avoiding common mistakes, we can improve our grammar and speak English correctly.

FAQS:

Here are some FAQs about the Preposition.

1. What is a preposition?

A preposition is a word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in a sentence. It tells where, when, or how something happens.

Example: The book is on the table. (Shows place)

2. What are some common prepositions?

Some commonly used prepositions are:
Place: in, on, under, between, behind
Time: at, on, in, before, after
Direction: to, from, into, out of, towards
Manner: by, with, like, as

3. How do I use prepositions correctly?

To use prepositions correctly, remember these simple rules:

Use “in” for large places (I live in a city).
Use “on” for surfaces (The phone is on the table).
Use “at” for exact times (I wake up at 7 o’clock).

4. Can a sentence end with a preposition?

Yes, a sentence can end with a preposition, but it depends on the structure.

Correct: This is the book I was looking for.
Wrong: This is the book for which I was looking. (Sounds unnatural)

5. What are common mistakes with prepositions?

Some common mistakes are:
Saying “I live on London” (Correct: “I live in London”)
Saying “She sat between her friends” (Correct: “She sat among her friends”)

6. Why are prepositions important?

Prepositions help connect words in a sentence and give clear meaning. Without them, sentences would not make sense!

Example:
I am school. (Incorrect )
I am at school. (Correct )