6. Prepositions

Overview

Prepositions are small but powerful words that establish relationships between different elements in a sentence, covering time, place, direction, manner, and more. This chapter systematically covers ten distinct categories of prepositions with clear explanations and original examples. Special attention is paid to commonly confused pairs such as 'in/into', 'since/for', 'above/over', and 'between/among'. A curated collection of essential phrasal verbs rounds out the chapter to prepare learners for competitive English examinations.

Definition

A preposition is a linking word or short phrase that connects a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase to other parts of a sentence, expressing relationships of space, time, direction, cause, or manner. Although prepositions almost always precede their objects, exceptions occur in questions and relative clauses where the preposition may move to the end of the clause.

Key Rules

  1. 1. Prepositions of Time

    Time prepositions anchor events to specific moments or broader periods. Use 'at' when referring to a precise clock time, 'on' when specifying a particular day or date, and 'in' when describing longer stretches such as months, seasons, or years.

    Show example Example

    The seminar starts at nine o'clock on the first Friday in December.

  2. 2. Prepositions of Place

    Place prepositions situate objects or people relative to other things. 'In' is chosen for enclosed or bounded spaces, 'on' for surfaces or planes, and 'under' for anything positioned directly below another object.

    Show example Example

    A stack of folders rested on the shelf inside the cabinet under the window.

  3. 3. Prepositions of Direction

    Direction prepositions describe the path taken during movement rather than a final resting place. Words like 'into', 'towards', 'past', and 'through' each capture a distinct type of trajectory.

    Show example Example

    The cyclist rode through the tunnel and then turned towards the bridge.

  4. 4. Prepositions of Movement

    Movement prepositions emphasise physical transition from one location to another. 'To' marks a destination, 'into' marks entry into an enclosed space, and 'through' describes passage from one end of a space to the other.

    Show example Example

    She hurried to the station and boarded the train, pushing through the crowded carriage.

  5. 5. Prepositions of Manner

    Manner prepositions indicate the way or style in which something is done. The most common choices are 'by' for modes of transport or method, 'with' for using a tool or quality, 'in' for style or language, and 'like' for comparison.

    Show example Example

    He presented his findings in a calm tone, speaking like a seasoned professional.

  6. 6. Prepositions of Measure

    Measure prepositions connect a quantity or unit to the noun it describes. 'Of' links a specific amount to a substance, while 'by' links a standard unit of measurement to a transaction or rate.

    Show example Example

    She ordered a kilogram of flour and then purchased extra butter by the block.

  7. 7. Prepositions of Source

    Source prepositions identify where something originates or who created it. 'From' points to a geographical or physical origin, while 'by' attributes a created work to its author or maker.

    Show example Example

    The silk comes from a region in the south, and this tapestry is woven by local artisans.

  8. 8. Prepositions of Possession

    Possession prepositions signal ownership or a quality associated with a person or object. 'Of' typically denotes belonging, while 'with' describes an accompanying feature or attribute.

    Show example Example

    The ambassador arrived with a briefcase of classified documents.

  9. 9. Prepositions of Agent or Instrument

    In passive constructions, 'by' names the agent—the person or entity responsible for carrying out the action—while 'with' names the instrument or tool that was employed to perform the action.

    Show example Example

    The mosaic was assembled by a craftsman with tiny pieces of coloured glass.

  10. 10. Prepositions for Devices and Machines

    When mentioning the vehicle, electronic device, or machine used to accomplish something, prepositions such as 'by', 'on', and 'with' are used depending on context: 'by' for transport, 'on' for digital devices, and 'with' for handheld tools or machinery.

    Show example Example

    She drafted the report on her tablet and then printed it with the office laser printer.

  11. 11. At vs. In for Time

    'At' pins an event to a specific, identifiable moment such as an exact hour or a fixed daily occurrence, whereas 'in' is reserved for broader, non-specific time frames like months, seasons, decades, or years.

    Show example Example

    The power outage occurred at midnight in the middle of winter.

  12. 12. In vs. Into

    'In' describes a static state of being located inside a space with no implied movement, whereas 'into' signals dynamic movement from outside toward the interior of a space.

    Show example Example

    The professor was already in the lecture hall when the late students hurried into the room.

  13. 13. Into vs. In to

    Written as one word, 'into' functions as a single preposition conveying movement or transformation toward the inside of something. Written as two words, 'in to' pairs the adverb 'in' with the separate preposition 'to', which typically expresses purpose or direction toward a recipient.

    Show example Example

    She handed her resignation letter in to the director before walking into the lift.

  14. 14. On vs. Onto

    'On' describes a static position where something rests upon a surface, implying no change of location. 'Onto' describes the act of moving from one place to land or settle upon a surface.

    Show example Example

    The mug was on the tray, but the toddler tipped it onto the floor.

  15. 15. Since vs. For vs. From

    'Since' marks the precise starting point of an ongoing situation and requires a perfect tense. 'For' quantifies the total duration of a period, also often paired with perfect tenses. 'From' simply marks where a time span begins and can appear with many tense forms, often paired with 'to' or 'until' to show the endpoint.

    Show example Example

    The shop has been open since January and has operated for six months, staying open from eight in the morning until nine at night.

  16. 16. Made of vs. Made from

    Choose 'made of' when the constituent material is still identifiable in the finished product. Choose 'made from' when the raw material has been chemically or physically transformed to such a degree that it is no longer recognisable in the end product.

    Show example Example

    The trophy is made of bronze, whereas the synthetic fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles.

  17. 17. Under vs. Below vs. Beneath vs. Underneath

    'Under' conveys being directly below something, often with a sense of being covered or in a subordinate position, and also means 'less than' in numerical contexts. 'Below' compares a position or value against a reference level or threshold. 'Beneath' is a more formal synonym for 'under', sometimes implying concealment or metaphorical inferiority. 'Underneath' is an informal, emphatic way to express physical placement below another object.

    Show example Example

    The forgotten note was found underneath the mat, below the step, tucked beneath a loose tile.

  18. 18. Above vs. Over

    'Above' describes a position higher than a reference point without implying direct contact or movement, and is also used for higher ranks or values. 'Over' implies movement across or covering something, and is used when a quantity exceeds a given number.

    Show example Example

    A flag flew above the entrance while a banner stretched over the archway.

  19. 19. Between vs. Among vs. Amongst

    'Between' is used to distinguish specific, individually identified items—whether two or more. 'Among' treats items as part of an undifferentiated mass or collective. 'Amongst' carries the same meaning as 'among' but has a more literary or formal register.

    Show example Example

    The land was divided between four named heirs, causing tension among the broader community.

  20. 20. To vs. Towards

    'To' specifies a definite endpoint or destination that the subject reaches or intends to reach. 'Towards' indicates a general direction of travel or orientation without necessarily implying arrival at a specific point.

    Show example Example

    The courier drove to the warehouse and then turned towards the loading dock.

  21. 21. Across vs. Along

    'Across' describes movement from one side of an area or boundary to the opposite side, implying a crossing. 'Along' describes movement that follows the length or direction of something, remaining parallel to it rather than crossing it.

    Show example Example

    They jogged along the coastal path and then swam across the inlet.

  22. 22. Phrasal Verbs with Prepositions

    Phrasal verbs pair a base verb with a preposition or adverbial particle to produce a meaning that often cannot be guessed from the individual words alone. Mastering them is essential for both natural communication and high-scoring performance in competitive English examinations.

    Show example Example

    The committee had to call off the summit after failing to figure out a compromise.

Example Sentences

  1. Example 1

    Everyone present must abide by the code of conduct posted at the entrance.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'abide by' meaning to comply with or respect a rule or decision.

  2. Example 2

    The derelict warehouse was blown up to clear space for a new housing project.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'blow up' meaning to destroy by explosion.

  3. Example 3

    The photocopier broke down right before the exam papers needed to be printed.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'break down' meaning to stop functioning mechanically.

  4. Example 4

    Burglars broke into the jewellery store by cutting through the back wall.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'break into' meaning to enter a premises by force.

  5. Example 5

    A fire broke out in the storage room early on Saturday morning.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'break out' meaning to start suddenly or spread rapidly.

  6. Example 6

    The couple broke up quietly after realising their long-term goals were incompatible.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'break up' meaning to end a romantic relationship.

  7. Example 7

    Her grandparents helped bring up the twins after their parents moved overseas.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'bring up' meaning to raise and nurture a child.

  8. Example 8

    He bumped into his former professor while browsing in the science section of the bookshop.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'bump into' meaning to meet someone by chance.

  9. Example 9

    The festival committee voted to call off the evening fireworks owing to strong winds.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'call off' meaning to cancel a planned event.

  10. Example 10

    The coach asked the players to calm down and refocus before the second half.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'calm down' meaning to become less agitated or upset.

  11. Example 11

    Even after the bell rang, the debating team decided to carry on rehearsing their arguments.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'carry on' meaning to continue an activity.

  12. Example 12

    The junior officers were instructed to carry out the evacuation drill without delay.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'carry out' meaning to perform or execute a specific task.

  13. Example 13

    Passengers travelling on international flights must check in at least two hours early.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'check in' meaning to present oneself at a hotel or airport counter.

  14. Example 14

    Guests are required to check out of their rooms before eleven o'clock on the last morning.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'check out' meaning to complete departure formalities at a hotel.

  15. Example 15

    The hikers came across a freshwater spring while exploring the remote hillside trail.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'come across' meaning to encounter or find something unexpectedly.

  16. Example 16

    You can always count on the senior technician to resolve hardware faults quickly.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'count on' meaning to rely on someone for help or support.

  17. Example 17

    Her physician recommended that she cut down on salt to manage her blood pressure.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'cut down on' meaning to reduce the amount of something consumed.

  18. Example 18

    The trainer told him to cut out late-night snacking if he wanted to improve his fitness.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'cut out' meaning to stop doing or consuming something.

  19. Example 19

    The branch supervisor must deal with customer disputes before they escalate further.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'deal with' meaning to handle or manage a problem or situation.

  20. Example 20

    Community unrest began to die down once the authorities restored power to the neighbourhood.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'die down' meaning to gradually diminish in intensity.

  21. Example 21

    The legal team will draw up the partnership agreement before the end of the week.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'draw up' meaning to prepare a formal written document.

  22. Example 22

    The children love to dress up in historical costumes during the annual school play.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'dress up' meaning to wear special or formal clothing.

  23. Example 23

    Feel free to drop in for tea any afternoon; there is no need to call ahead.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'drop in' meaning to make a casual, unannounced visit.

  24. Example 24

    Exhausted from the journey, she dropped off to sleep before the train even left the station.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'drop off' meaning to fall asleep gradually.

  25. Example 25

    He decided to drop out of the architecture programme after securing a full-time apprenticeship.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'drop out' meaning to leave a course of study before completion.

  26. Example 26

    If the talks collapse, both sides could end up returning to conflict.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'end up' meaning to arrive at an unexpected final state or outcome.

  27. Example 27

    It took the engineering team several days to figure out why the software kept crashing.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'figure out' meaning to work out the solution to a problem.

  28. Example 28

    Applicants are required to fill out the registration form in block capital letters.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'fill out' meaning to complete a form by entering the required information.

  29. Example 29

    Investigators are still trying to find out how the confidential data was leaked.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'find out' meaning to discover or obtain information.

  30. Example 30

    The research team must focus on collecting data before drawing any conclusions.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'focus on' meaning to direct one's attention or efforts toward a specific goal.

  31. Example 31

    After a difficult start, the two departments eventually learned to get along with each other.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'get along with' meaning to have a cooperative or friendly relationship.

  32. Example 32

    The suspect managed to get away before the security alarm had fully sounded.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'get away' meaning to escape from a place or situation.

  33. Example 33

    Despite a modest income, the family manages to get by through careful budgeting.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'get by' meaning to survive or cope with limited resources.

  34. Example 34

    Please get in the taxi so we can reach the venue before the reception begins.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'get in' meaning to enter a vehicle or enclosed space.

  35. Example 35

    The notebook was on the desk all morning before it slid onto the floor.

    Why this works

    Illustrates the contrast between static position 'on' and movement toward a surface 'onto'.

  36. Example 36

    The consultant was already in the boardroom when the clients stepped into the building.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'in' for a static interior location versus 'into' for movement entering a space.

  37. Example 37

    We hiked along the ridge and then trekked across the frozen lake at dawn.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'along' for movement parallel to a path and 'across' for crossing from one side to another.

  38. Example 38

    She has been renovating the cottage since springtime and expects to finish in another month.

    Why this works

    Illustrates 'since' for a specific starting point and an implied duration continuing to the present.

Common Errors

  • She traveled to work with bus.

    She traveled to work by bus.

  • The bread was sliced by a sharp knife.

    The bread was sliced with a sharp knife.

  • This ring is made from gold.

    This ring is made of gold.

  • Cheese is made of milk.

    Cheese is made from milk.

  • The children dived in the lake.

    The children dived into the lake.

  • I have been living here since five years.

    I have been living here for five years.

  • The prize money was distributed between the entire class.

    The prize money was distributed among the entire class.

  • She walked along the road to get to the other side.

    She walked across the road to get to the other side.

  • The gymnast leaped on the mat from the springboard.

    The gymnast leaped onto the mat from the springboard.

  • The student turned his assignment into the teacher.

    The student turned his assignment in to the teacher.

Key Takeaways

  • Prepositions are linking words that connect nouns or pronouns to other sentence elements, expressing relationships of time, place, direction, manner, measure, or possession.
  • Static positions call for 'in' or 'on', while movement entering or landing on a surface requires 'into' or 'onto' respectively.
  • In passive sentences, 'by' names the agent who performs the action, and 'with' names the tool or instrument used.
  • Use 'made of' when the source material is still identifiable in the finished product, and 'made from' when it has been fully transformed.
  • 'Since' marks a specific point in the past where something began, 'for' quantifies the total length of a period, and 'from' marks only the starting boundary of a time span.
  • Phrasal verbs combine a verb with a preposition or particle to create idiomatic meanings that must be learned as fixed units rather than interpreted word by word.

Practice - Set 1

  1. The mural was painted _______ a local artist _______ a wide horsehair brush.

  2. This artisan cheese is made _______ fresh cow's milk, while the wooden serving board is made _______ oak.

  3. He has been attending physiotherapy _______ his surgery last month, going _______ two sessions every week.

  4. The director was already sitting _______ the screening room when the actors finally walked _______ the venue.

  5. Leave the parcel _______ the reception desk and make sure nobody lets the dog jump _______ the sofa.

  6. The whistle-blower decided to hand the evidence _______ the investigating committee.

  7. Temperatures fell _______ freezing overnight, so we slept _______ three thick quilts.

Practice - Set 2

  1. The drone hovered _______ the stadium roof, taking photographs high _______ the crowd.

  2. The inheritance was divided _______ the three named siblings, while news of it spread quickly _______ the extended family.

  3. Because they unexpectedly _______ their rival at the trade fair, they had to _______ their confidential product launch.

  4. The researchers jogged _______ the canal towpath every morning before swimming _______ the reservoir.

  5. The train departs _______ six o'clock _______ a cold January morning.

  6. She walked _______ the crowded market to reach the stall that was set up _______ the far side of the square.

  7. He was heading _______ the library with the intention of going _______ to return his overdue books.

Practice - Set 3

  1. Which sentence uses a preposition correctly?

Live speaking practice

Speak it out: Prepositions

You are volunteering at a major college technical fest in Pune. The main seminar is about to start, but the projector has stopped working and the chief guest has just arrived.

Intermediate ~5 min Your own free AI key

Your voice and your AI key never touch our servers; the key stays in this browser and is sent only to Google. Only your round scores are saved to track progress.