What are Prepositions? Here are Examples and How to Use Them

Prepositions may look small, but they hold big power in English. 

From “in” and “on” to “at” and “with,” these tiny words link ideas, show relationships, and bring clarity to sentences. 

Yet, many learners struggle to use them correctly. 

In this article, we’ll explore what a preposition is, how it works, and how you can master it with ease.

What are Prepositions?

Prepositions are small but powerful words that show the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and another part of the sentence. 

They often indicate direction, place, time, cause, manner, or means. 

For example, in the sentence “The book is on the table,” the preposition on shows the relationship between the book and the table. 

Prepositions are always followed by a noun or pronoun, called the object of the preposition.

When Should You Use Prepositions?

You should use prepositions whenever you want to describe the relationship between two elements in a sentence. 

They are common in everyday English when you:

• Indicate location or position.
• Express time.
• Show direction or movement.
• Explain cause, reason, or purpose.
• Describe manner or agent.
• Show comparison.

Prepositions make your sentences clearer and more specific, avoiding confusion.

Types of Prepositions

Prepositions can be categorized based on the relationship they describe. 

Each type serves a unique role in making your communication more precise. 

Let’s look at the main types and their uses:

Prepositions of Time

These prepositions tell us when something happens. Common examples include at, in, on, by, during, since, for, from, to. 

Examples:

• We met at 7 p.m.
• She was born in July.

They help us organize events in relation to time.

Prepositions of Place

Prepositions of place describe where something is located. Common examples include on, in, at, under, over, between, among, next to.

Examples:

• The keys are on the table.
• He is in the kitchen.

They are essential for giving directions and describing positions.

Prepositions of Direction and Movement

These prepositions show movement from one place to another. Common ones include into, onto, towards, across, along, through, down, up.

Examples:

• She walked into the room.
• The dog ran across the street.

They make action sentences more dynamic and clear.

Prepositions of Cause and Purpose

These prepositions explain why something happens. Common ones include because of, due to, for, from, of, on account of.

Examples:

• The flight was canceled due to bad weather.
• He was fined for speeding.

They are frequently used in both spoken and formal English.

Prepositions of Manner

These prepositions describe how something is done, or who/what performs an action. Common ones include by, with, like, as, through, without.

Examples:

• The cake was made by my mother.
• She wrote the letter with a pen.

They help add detail to descriptions.

Prepositions of Comparison

These prepositions show contrast or relationships between two ideas. Examples include like, as, than, unlike, despite, in spite of.

Examples:

• She runs faster than her brother.
• He succeeded despite the challenges.

They are useful in expressing similarities and differences.

List of Prepositions in English

Here are list of common prepositions from different categories with example sentences:

Conclusion

Mastering prepositions is the key to speaking and writing English naturally. 

The more you practice, the more confident you’ll sound in everyday conversations.

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