Prepositions at a glance
in the room
Read the rule, inspect the example, then check yourself.
Overview
Prepositions are small words that show relationships between words.
A preposition usually has an object
The object can be a noun, pronoun, or -ing form.
- in the room
- for her
- after studying
Main Rules
Prepositions often depend on fixed English usage, not direct translation.
Use at, on, and in for time and place
At is usually a point, on is a surface or day, and in is an area or period.
- at 7:00
- on Monday
- in April
- at the station
- on the table
- in the room
Use to for direction and for for purpose or benefit
To often shows movement or target; for often shows reason, purpose, or recipient.
- go to class
- a book for beginners
Patterns
Many adjectives, verbs, and nouns have fixed preposition partners.
Common preposition partners
| Word | Preposition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| interested | in | interested in grammar |
| good | at | good at speaking |
| depend | on | depend on context |
| reason | for | the reason for the rule |
| afraid | of | afraid of mistakes |
Examples
The same preposition can have several meanings.
The lesson starts at nine.
At marks an exact time.
She is good at pronunciation.
Good uses at before an ability or activity.
I am looking for my notebook.
Look for means search.
Common Mistakes
Preposition mistakes are common because many phrases are fixed.
It depends from the context.
It depends on the context.
Depend is followed by on.
We discussed about the problem.
We discussed the problem.
Discuss takes a direct object without about.