Prepositions in English

What are prepositions in English? 

In English, we use prepositions to show the relationship between the noun with the rest of the sentence or question. 

There are several types of prepositions: simple, compound, double, participial and phrasal, however, all the various types function as prepositions, that is, they express the relationship between the nouns and the rest of the phrase. For example: 

• Oscar will see his friend at six o’clock. 

The noun of the phrase is “friend” and the preposition “at” is being used to express relationship (the time they will see each other), which is “six o’clock” – the object. 

• A present for you. 

The noun of the phrase is “present” and the preposition “for” is being used to show the relationship with the object (in this case an object pronoun), “you”.

Which preposition do I need to use? 

When constructing sentences or questions, it’s important that you use the correct preposition.

Even though there are many prepositions in English, as long you’re able to understand the rules concerning the principal ones, you’ll be able to construct the majority of your phrases correctly.

In simple prepositions, complete explanations with examples are given, so you will know which one you need to use.

The most common prepositions in English

The most common prepositions are simple prepositions, and by far the most common are: 

• At, in, on, to, for, with and about. 

If you really want to narrow the list down, at, in, on, to and for are, by far, the most important. These prepositions can be further categorized into two categories: time and place.

The differences between “to” and “for”? 

“To” and “for” cause many issues for English learners. We have put together a video in which we explain the four main differences between the two. Fortunately for you, there are four rules that you can follow.