What Are Prepositions? | Definition, Types & Examples

Prepositions are words that show the relationship between nouns, pronouns, and other words in a sentence. They are essential for creating longer, more accurate sentences and help describe time, place, movement, and relationships.

Using the correct preposition is crucial – using the wrong one can completely change the meaning of a sentence.

Example:

• My pen is on the table.
• My pen is under the table.

In this case, the prepositions “on” and “under” give opposite meanings, which could confuse the listener.

Types of Prepositions

Prepositions can be divided into several types:

1. Simple Prepositions: in, on, at, by, for
2. Double Prepositions: into, onto, within
3. Participle Prepositions: following, regarding, providing/provided
4. Compound Prepositions: across from, in addition to, in front of
5. Prepositional Phrases: under the bed, with some help, on time

Categories of Prepositions

Prepositions are often categorized by the type of relationship they express:

1. Prepositions of Description

Preposition	Example Sentence
With	I like the dress with red spots.
For	This website is for people studying English.
With	I want a sandwich with cheese and tomato.
For	I want to buy a present for my wife.

2. Prepositions of Time

Preposition	Usage	Example Sentence
In	Months, years	I was born in 1987. My birthday is in August.
On	Days, dates	He will be working on Monday. My birthday is on August 1st.
At	Specific times	I finish work at eight o’clock. I woke up at 5am.

3. Prepositions of Place

Preposition	Example Sentence
On	The pen is on the table.
In	My book is in my bag.
At	He is at the store.
Above	The clock is above the door.
Under	My shoes are under my bed.

4. Prepositions of Movement / Direction

Preposition	Example Sentence
Onto	I put the pen onto the table.
Into	I put my book into my bag.
From within	The sound came from within the tunnel.
Out of	I can’t wait to get out of here.

Tips for Using Prepositions

1. Learn common prepositions in context rather than in isolation.
2. Practice prepositional phrases to improve sentence variety.
3. Check preposition collocations, as some verbs require specific prepositions (e.g., interested in, good at).

Pro Tip: Even advanced learners sometimes misuse prepositions, so reading and listening to English daily can help internalize correct usage.

Practice Activity

Try making sentences using these prepositions:

1. With / For
2. In / On / At
3. Into / Onto / Out of
4. Above / Under / Within

Example:

• I placed the vase on the shelf.
• She is interested in learning Spanish.
• The cat jumped onto the table.
• The keys fell under the chair.

Final Thoughts

Prepositions are fundamental to English grammar. By practicing their use, you can make your writing clearer, more accurate, and more natural.

Don’t forget to check the Grammar Page for more lessons and exercises.