Prepositions are small but powerful words that connect ideas and show relationships between nouns, pronouns, and other parts of a sentence. If you are an ESL or EFL learner, mastering prepositions in English grammar is one of the most important steps toward speaking and writing naturally. In this lesson, you will find every key rule clearly explained with simple examples.
📘 What You Will Learn
- What prepositions are and how they work in a sentence
- All main types of prepositions with rules and examples
- Common mistakes ESL learners make with prepositions
- Practice exercises with an answer key to test your understanding
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What Are Prepositions in English Grammar?
A preposition is a word placed before a noun or pronoun to show its relationship to another word in the sentence. Prepositions indicate relationships of time, place, direction, manner, cause, and more. They are one of the eight parts of speech and are essential for building correct, natural sentences in English.
📘 Rule 1
A preposition always comes before a noun or pronoun (called the object of the preposition) to show a relationship.
✅ The book is on the table.
✅ She arrived before noon.
✅ He is talking to her.
| Type of Preposition |
Common Examples |
| Place |
in, on, at, under, above, beside |
| Time |
in, on, at, before, after, since, for |
| Direction / Movement |
to, into, through, toward, across, up |
| Manner |
by, with, like, in |
| Cause / Reason |
because of, due to, for, owing to |
| Agent / Instrument |
by, with |
Types of Prepositions With Rules and Examples
Prepositions of Place
Prepositions of place show where something or someone is located. The three most important ones for ESL learners are in, on, and at.
Using "In" for Place
📘 Rule 2
Use in for enclosed spaces, areas with boundaries, cities, countries, and regions.
✅ She lives in London.
✅ The keys are in the drawer.
✅ He grew up in a small village.
Using "On" for Place
📘 Rule 3
Use on for surfaces, floors of a building, streets, and islands.
✅ The cup is on the table.
✅ His office is on the third floor.
✅ She lives on Oxford Street.
Using "At" for Place
📘 Rule 4
Use at for specific points, addresses, events, and places of activity.
✅ She is at the bus stop.
✅ We met at the airport.
✅ He is studying at university.
Think of it this way: in = inside a space, on = touching a surface, at = a specific point or location. This simple mental picture will help you choose the right preposition faster.
Prepositions of Time
Prepositions of time tell us when something happens. Again, in, on, and at are the most commonly used — but for time, not place.
In, On, At — For Time
📘 Rule 5
Use in for months, years, seasons, and longer periods. Use on for specific days and dates. Use at for exact times and fixed expressions.
✅ She was born in 1995.
✅ It is cold in winter.
✅ The meeting is on Monday.
✅ His birthday is on 5th March.
✅ The class starts at 9 o'clock.
✅ We eat lunch at noon.
| Preposition |
Used For |
Example |
| in |
months, years, seasons, centuries |
in July, in 2020, in summer |
| on |
days, dates, special days |
on Friday, on 1st January, on New Year's Day |
| at |
exact times, fixed expressions |
at 7 am, at midnight, at night |
Since and For
📘 Rule 6
Use since with a specific point in time (when something started). Use for with a period or duration of time.
✅ She has lived here since 2010.
✅ I have been waiting since morning.
✅ He has worked here for five years.
✅ We studied for two hours.
Before, After, During, Until, By
📘 Rule 7
Before = earlier than; after = later than; during = throughout a period; until/till = up to a point in time; by = no later than.
✅ Finish this before dinner.
✅ She called me after the meeting.
✅ He slept during the lecture.
✅ Wait until I come back.
✅ Submit your assignment by Friday.
Prepositions of Direction and Movement
These prepositions show where something or someone is moving. They answer the question "Which way?" or "Where to?"
📘 Rule 8
Use to for movement toward a destination. Use into for movement from outside to inside. Use onto for movement to a surface.
✅ She walked to the market.
✅ He jumped into the pool.
✅ The cat climbed onto the roof.
📘 Rule 9
Use through for movement inside and out the other side. Use across for movement from one side to the other. Use along for movement following a path.
✅ We drove through the tunnel.
✅ She swam across the river.
✅ They walked along the beach.
Prepositions of Manner
These prepositions describe how something is done.
📘 Rule 10
Use by to show the means or method. Use with to show the tool or instrument. Use like to show similarity in manner.
✅ She travelled by train.
✅ He cut the bread with a knife.
✅ She sings like a professional.
Prepositions of Cause and Reason
📘 Rule 11
Use because of and due to to explain reasons. Use for to show purpose.
✅ The match was cancelled because of rain.
✅ The delay was due to traffic.
✅ She went to the shop for some milk.
Prepositions of Agent and Instrument
📘 Rule 12
Use by for the agent (the doer) in passive sentences. Use with for the instrument or tool used.
✅ The letter was written by the manager.
✅ The window was broken by the boy.
✅ He fixed it with a screwdriver.
Compound and Phrase Prepositions
Some prepositions are made up of two or more words. These are called compound prepositions or prepositional phrases. They work exactly like single-word prepositions.
📘 Rule 13
Compound prepositions are formed by combining words such as in front of, in spite of, on behalf of, according to, and instead of.
✅ He stood in front of the class.
✅ She went to school in spite of her illness.
✅ I am writing on behalf of my team.
✅ According to the report, prices have risen.
✅ Use water instead of oil.
Prepositions With Adjectives, Verbs, and Nouns (Collocations)
In English, certain adjectives, verbs, and nouns are always followed by a specific preposition. These are called prepositional collocations and must be memorized because they do not always follow a logical rule.
Adjective + Preposition Collocations
📘 Rule 14
Many adjectives are always followed by a specific preposition. These must be learned as fixed pairs.
✅ She is afraid of dogs.
✅ He is good at maths.
✅ I am interested in science.
✅ They are proud of their son.
✅ She is responsible for the project.
Verb + Preposition Collocations
📘 Rule 15
Many verbs are followed by a fixed preposition. Using the wrong preposition changes the meaning or makes the sentence incorrect.
✅ She listened to the teacher.
✅ He applied for the job.
✅ They agreed with the plan.
✅ I believe in hard work.
✅ She depends on her family.
When learning a new verb or adjective in English, always note the preposition that follows it. Write it as a phrase — for example, write listen to, not just listen. This is the fastest way to master prepositional collocations.
Complete Rules With Examples
Preposition of Place and Time: How to Use "IN" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
I often tell my students to think of "in" as a container. Whether it is a container of time (like a month) or a container of space (like a city), it helps you visualize why we choose this preposition over others.
1. Master Time Expressions: Months, Years, and Seasons
📘 Rule 1
Use "in" before months, years, seasons, and specific periods of time.
• Months: in January, in May, in December.
• Years: in 2007, in 1998, in the 21st century.
• Seasons: in spring, in summer, in winter.
• Periods: in a few minutes, in two years, in a week, in two months.
2. Using "In" for Large Places, Positions, and Surroundings
📘 Rule 2
Use "in" for comparatively larger places (countries, cities) or when something is surrounded by an area or object.
• Larger Areas: in Canada, in London, in Europe, in the world.
• Enclosed Spaces: in the car, in the ground, in the paint, in the bed, in an armchair, in the lock.
• Expressions: in a line, in a row, in the sky, in a photograph, in a mirror, in the sun, in the shade.
3. Professional Contexts: Careers, States, and Life Stages
| Category |
Examples |
| Job / Profession |
in the army, in driving, in teaching, in business |
| State / Condition |
in love, in trouble, in good repair, in a hurry, in debt, in misery, in poverty |
| Life Stages |
in childhood, in the womb, in adulthood |
| Clothing & Exchange |
in a blue suit, in a red cap, in a tie, in cash, in goods |
4. Common Phrasal Verbs and Fixed Expressions with "In"
- Interested in / Accurate in (He is very accurate in his calculations.)
- Succeed in / Absorbed in (She was absorbed in her book.)
- Deficient in / Experienced in (The team is experienced in digital marketing.)
- Deal in / Engaged in (They are engaged in a serious discussion.)
- Fill in, Call in, Get in, Live in, Set in, Turn in, Dwell in.
Use "in other words" when you want to explain something more simply, or "in addition to" when adding more facts to your sentence.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: I am at a hurry.
Say: I am in a hurry.
Don't say: There is a bird on the sky.
Say: There is a bird in the sky.
Preposition of Place and Time: How to Use "ON" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
I find that students often confuse "in" and "on" with transport. A simple trick I use in class: if you can stand up and walk a few steps inside the vehicle (like a bus or train), use "on." If you have to crouch and sit immediately (like a car), use "in."
1. Master Time: Specific Days, Dates, and Special Occasions
📘 Rule 1
Use "on" for specific days of the week, calendar dates, and special holidays that include the word "day".
• Days: on Sunday, on Friday, on Saturday.
• Dates: on 5th Sept., on 24th of this month, on the 1st of January.
• Occasions: on my birthday, on Christmas Day, on New Year's Day.
2. Surfaces, Positions, and Topics of Discussion
📘 Rule 2
Use "on" when an object is touching a surface, to denote a position on a list, or to describe the subject/topic of a book or talk.
• Physical Surfaces: on the wall, on the table, on the notice board, on my head.
• Data/Position: on the floor, on the menu, on the list, on a map.
• Topics: an essay on pollution, a lecture on democracy, a book on the environment.
3. Transport, Clothing, and Personal Activities
| Category |
Examples |
| Transportation |
on a bus, on a train, on a motorcycle, on foot |
| State / Activity |
on vacation, on business, on holiday, on loan |
| Being Worn |
Put your coat on, have your glasses on |
| Support |
on the hook, on her back, on the foot |
4. Common Phrasal Verbs and Verbs with "On"
- Depend on / Rely on (Your grade depends on your effort.)
- Carry on / Keep on (You must keep on practicing your English.)
- Switch on / Turn on (Please turn on the computer.)
- Live on / Pass on (He lives on very little money.)
- Act on, Impose on, Walk on, Put on.
Remember the difference: We say "in the morning" but "on Monday morning." When the specific day is mentioned, "on" always takes priority!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: I am going by foot.
Say: I am going on foot.
Don't say: He was born in 5th May.
Say: He was born on 5th May.
Preposition of Place and Time: How to Use "AT" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
I always teach my students that "at" is for specific points. If "in" is a big box and "on" is a flat surface, "at" is a tiny dot on a map or a precise tick on a clock. It is all about accuracy!
1. Master Precise Time and Specific Parts of the Day
📘 Rule 1
Use "at" for specific clock times and transition points during the day (dawn, dusk, etc.).
• Clock Time: at eight, at five o’clock, at quarter past three.
• Daily Points: at night, at noon, at dawn, at midnight, at sunrise, at sunset.
• Fixed Phrases: at present, at this moment, at the same time.
2. Using "At" for Specific Points, Locations, and Small Areas
📘 Rule 2
Use "at" for exact locations, specific points in space, or when you are at a place for its intended purpose.
• Specific Points: at the bus stop, at the airport, at the platform, at the traffic lights, at the top.
• Locations: at the door, at the corner of the street, at reception, at home, at campus.
• Settings: at the meeting, at the end of the party, at the back of the room.
3. Professional Contexts: Measurements, Prices, and Workplace Rules
| Category |
Examples |
| Price / Speed / Degree |
at 90 mph, at $300, at 0°C, at 100°C |
| State / Activity |
I am at lunch, at war, at the office |
| Age / Festivals |
at twenty, at the age of sixty, at Christmas, at Eid |
| Workplace |
at the bank, at school, at college, at university |
4. Common Phrasal Expressions and Verbs with "At"
- Good at / Bad at (She is good at English.)
- Look at / Smile at (Look at the beautiful sunset!)
- Laugh at / Angry at (Don't be angry at me.)
- Arrive at / Knock at (They arrived at the station on time.)
- Aim at, Point at, Wonder at, Get at.
When talking about location, use "at" for a building as a functional place (e.g., I am at the cinema watching a film) and "in" if you want to emphasize being physically inside the walls.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: Meet me in the bus stop.
Say: Meet me at the bus stop.
Don't say: He is good in math.
Say: He is good at math.
Direction and Connection: How to Use the Preposition "TO" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
Think of "to" as an arrow. It always shows movement, direction, or a recipient. If you are moving from point A toward point B, "to" is the bridge that gets you there. I always remind my students: "to" is about the destination!
1. Movement, Direction, and Specific Locations
📘 Rule 1
Use "to" to indicate movement toward a place, a specific direction, or the physical limit of something.
• Destination: I walked to the office. He is going to Paris. My first visit to Africa.
• Direction: Turn to the left. There are mountains to the north.
• Distance/Limit: Her hair fell to her waist. The meadows lead down to the river.
2. Time Ranges, Limits, and Approaching Events
📘 Rule 2
Use "to" to show the end of a period, a range between two points, or the time remaining before an event.
• Time & Days: From Monday to Friday. It is five to ten (9:55). How long to lunch?
• Ranges: He is 25 to 30 years old. Profits dropped to $75 million.
• Completion: I watched the program from beginning to end.
3. Recipients, Reactions, and Resulting States
| Category |
Examples |
| The Recipient |
He gave it to his sister. I’ll explain to you. |
| Reaching a State |
Cooked to perfection. Tore it to pieces. Reduced to tears. |
| Directed Actions |
A threat to world peace. A reference to her book. |
| In Honour of |
A monument to soldiers. Drink to your new job! |
4. Expressing Change and Diversity
- Change of Emotion: His expression changed from shock to joy.
- Variety: I like all kinds of music, from opera to reggae.
- Constant Movement: She spent her childhood travelling from place to place.
Be careful with "explain." We always explain something to someone. ❌ Never say "Explain me this." ✅ Always say "Explain this to me."
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: I am going at London.
Say: I am going to London.
Don't say: She gave the book for him.
Say: She gave the book to him.
Purpose and Benefit: How to Use the Preposition "FOR" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
I like to call "for" the "reason" preposition. Whether you are doing a favor, giving a gift, or explaining why something exists, "for" connects the action to the purpose. Remember: "to" is often about destination, but "for" is about motivation!
1. Purpose, Function, and Intended Use
📘 Rule 1
Use "for" to explain the function of an object, the recipient of a gift, or the reason behind an action.
• Function: A machine for slicing bread. Are you learning English for work?
• Recipients: There is a letter for you. This is a book for children.
• Reason/Cause: Famous for its cathedral. An award for bravery.
2. Duration of Time and Support
📘 Rule 2
Use "for" to show how long something lasts or to express your opinion in favor of an idea.
• Time Length: I’m going away for a few days. That is all the news for now.
• In Support Of: Are you for or against the proposal? I am all for having fun.
• Helping Others: What can I do for you? Translate this letter for me.
3. Capability, Necessity, and Responsibility
| Category |
Examples |
| Ability / Difficulty |
The box is too heavy for me. Clear enough for you to read. |
| Obtaining Help |
He came for advice. Call for more information. |
| Necessity |
No need for you to go. It is useless for us to continue. |
| Responsibility |
It is for you to decide. It is not for me to say. |
4. Emotional Reactions and Concerns
- Concern: They are anxious for her safety.
- Good Fortune: Fortunately for us, the weather changed.
- Physical Limits: I couldn’t speak for laughing.
Students often confuse "since" and "for." Use "for" when you are talking about a total amount of time (for 2 hours, for 5 years). Use "since" for a starting point (since Monday).
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: I have been here since three days.
Say: I have been here for three days.
Don't say: This is the train for London (direction).
Say: This is the train to London. (Use for if you mean the train is intended for a specific group, like "a train for commuters").
Deadline and Method: How to Use the Preposition "BY" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
I always tell my students that "by" is the "limit" preposition. In time, it means "not later than." In travel, it describes the method. And in seating, it simply means "beside." It's a very versatile word that helps define boundaries!
1. Time Limits and Deadlines
📘 Rule 1
Use "by" to indicate a deadline or a point in time when an action will be completed.
• Deadlines: I will have reached there by tomorrow.
• Future Achievements: I will have passed the exam by next year.
• Completion: Please finish this report by Friday.
2. Method of Travel, Communication, and Payment
📘 Rule 2
Use "by" to describe the means or system used to travel, pay, or contact someone.
• Transport: Travel by bus, by car, by train, or by plane.
• Routes: Travel by air, by land, or by sea.
• Communication/Payment: Contact me by letter or telephone. Pay by cheque.
3. Positions, Paths, and Passive Agents
| Category |
Examples |
| Position (Beside) |
He is sitting by me. The rack is by the cupboard. |
| Passive Voice |
Football was played by students. Helped by an NGO. |
| Passing Through |
I went out by the back door. He came by country roads. |
4. Expressing Action and Agents
- The "Who": In passive sentences, "by" tells us who performed the action (e.g., The book was written by a famous author).
- Proximity: It can describe something being very close to another object (e.g., The house is by the river).
- Selection: Choosing a specific path over another (e.g., We avoided the highway and went by the coast).
When using "by" for transport, do not use "a" or "the." ❌ Say by the bus. ✅ Say "by bus." However, if you use "in" or "on," you must use the article (e.g., on the bus).
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: I will finish it until tomorrow.
Say: I will finish it by tomorrow. (By means the deadline is tomorrow; until means the action continues up to that point).
Don't say: I am sitting near to him.
Say: I am sitting by him.
Preposition of Origin and Cause: How to Use "FROM" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
Think of "from" as the starting point of a journey. Whether it is where you were born, the person who sent a gift, or the beginning of a distance, it always marks the "point of departure."
1. Origins, Direction, and Senders
• Starting Point: I am from Nepal. The bus goes from Kathmandu to Dhading.
• The Sender: I got a letter from my boss. There was a gift from my friend.
2. Protection, Causes, and Distinction
• Protection/Prevention: Protect people from robbery. Save the children from abuse.
• Cause/Suffering: I’m suffering from fever.
• Difference: Why are living things different from non-living things?
Preposition of Surface Movement: How to Use "ONTO" Correctly
"Onto" is special because it combines movement and surface. Use it when there is a change of level or position that ends on top of something else.
• Physical Movement: Move the books onto the second shelf. She stepped down onto the platform.
• Facing Direction: The window looked out onto the terrace.
Preposition of Direction and Aim: How to Use "TOWARDS" Correctly
"Towards" is about orientation. You might not reach the destination yet, but you are definitely facing or moving in that direction!
| Context |
Examples |
| Physical Path |
Heading towards the City Centre. Back towards me. |
| Time/Goals |
towards the end of April. A step towards political union. |
| Attitude/Relationship |
He was tender towards her. Attitude towards death. |
| Financial Aim |
The money will go towards a new school building. |
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: She is different than her sister.
Say: She is different from her sister.
Don't say: Put the cat in the table.
Say: Put the cat onto the table.
Opposition and Contact: How to Use the Preposition "AGAINST" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Against" is a powerful word. It can mean physical pressure, like leaning on a wall, or mental pressure, like disagreeing with an idea. I always tell my students to visualize two forces meeting—that is the heart of "against"!
1. Opposition, Disagreement, and Disadvantage
📘 Rule 1
Use "against" to show that someone disagrees with a rule or person, or when circumstances are unfavorable.
• Conflict: That’s against the law. The teachers are against the principal.
• Lack of Will: She was forced to marry against her will.
• Disadvantage: The evidence is against him. Her age is against her.
2. Physical Contact and Prevention
📘 Rule 2
Use "against" when something is touching/hitting a surface or to describe protection from a threat.
• Touching: Put the piano against the wall. The rain beat against the windows.
• Prevention: An injection against rabies. Precautions against fire. Assured against burglary.
3. Comparison, Contrast, and Backgrounds
| Category |
Examples |
| Visual Contrast |
Red clothes against the snow. A story against a civil war background. |
| Comparison |
Weigh benefits against the cost. Check receipts against the statement. |
| Currency/Rates |
What is the rate of exchange against the dollar? |
When checking documents, we use "against" to mean "comparing two things to see if they match." For example: "I checked the student list against the exam results."
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: Lean the ladder on the wall.
Say: Lean the ladder against the wall. (Because it is touching and putting pressure on it).
Don't say: He is opposite the law.
Say: He is against the law.
Preposition of Time and Experience: How to Use "PAST" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
I always tell my students that "past" is like looking in a rearview mirror. It refers to everything that has already happened or time that has moved beyond a certain point. It helps us anchor our current situation by looking at what came before.
1. Time Gone By and Completed Eras
📘 Rule 1
Use "past" to refer to centuries, years, or moments that are no longer present or when a period for an activity has ended.
• Ages & Eras: In past years, centuries, or ages; in times past.
• Finished Opportunities: The time for discussion is past.
• Clock Time: It is half past two (2:30).
2. Recent Events and Earlier Experiences
📘 Rule 2
Use "past" to describe the weeks or months immediately preceding today, or to base a judgment on previous knowledge.
• Recent Duration: I haven't seen her in the past few weeks. The past month has been busy.
• Learning & History: From past experience, I'd say he forgot. It is all past history now.
3. Professional and Academic Contexts of "Past"
| Category |
Examples |
| Workplace Projects |
Reviewing past performance. Learning from past mistakes. |
| Social Context |
Forgiving past grievances. Talking about past lives. |
| Physical Movement |
He walked past the house without stopping. |
Don't confuse "past" and "passed." Use "past" as a preposition or adjective (the past week). Use "passed" only as the past tense of the verb to pass (He passed the exam).
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: He walked passed the library.
Say: He walked past the library.
Don't say: In the passed few days, it rained.
Say: In the past few days, it rained.
Direction and Elevation: How to Use the Preposition "UP" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Up" isn't just about moving toward the sky. In English, we use it to describe moving along a street or even traveling against the flow of a river. It’s a preposition that adds a sense of "forward and higher" to your sentences.
1. Higher Positions and Vertical Movement
📘 Rule 1
Use "up" to indicate movement toward a higher level or to describe a location situated at a higher point.
• Vertical Climb: She climbed up the flight of steps. He went up the ladder.
• Higher Location: The village is further up the valley. The cabin is up the mountain.
2. Movement Along Streets and Rivers
📘 Rule 2
Use "up" to mean "along" a road or to describe traveling toward the source (start) of a river.
• Along a Road: We live just up the road, past the post office. Walk up the street to the bank.
• Against the Current: There is a cruise up the Rhine (moving toward the start of the river).
3. Common Expressions and Phrasal Verbs with "Up"
| Category |
Examples |
| Increase/Growth |
Prices are up. Speak up (louder). Grow up. |
| Completion |
Eat up. Clean up. Time is up (finished). |
| Preparation |
Set up a meeting. Dress up for a party. |
"Up" and "Down" are often used interchangeably when talking about a road (e.g., "The shop is up the street" vs. "The shop is down the street"). However, usually "up" implies moving toward a higher house number or toward the center of a town.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: She climbed to the stairs.
Say: She climbed up the stairs.
Don't say: The price went high.
Say: The price went up.
Coverage and Connection: How to Use the Preposition "OVER" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Over" is a very versatile preposition. Whether you are covering a child with a blanket, hanging a lamp above a table, or crossing a bridge, "over" describes a relationship where one thing is physically or figuratively "above" another. It’s all about layers and movement!
1. Surfaces, Coverage, and Higher Positions
📘 Rule 1
Use "over" when one thing covers another or is located in a higher position without necessarily touching it.
• Covering: A blanket over the child. An overcoat over a suit. Hand over her mouth.
• Higher Position: An umbrella over her. A lamp hanging over the table. The balcony juts out over the street.
2. Movement Across and Duration of Time
📘 Rule 2
Use "over" to indicate movement from one side to another or to describe an action happening during a specific period.
• Across: A bridge over the river. They ran over the grass. A view over the park.
• Time & Events: Discuss it over lunch. Over the next few days. Over the years. Away over the New Year.
3. Communication Methods and Relationships
| Category |
Examples |
| Communication |
Heard it over the radio. Talk over the phone. |
| Disagreements |
An argument over money. Disagreement over a method. |
| Control |
He has no control over his students. |
When you say "over lunch" or "over dinner," it means the conversation happened while you were eating. It's a very common way to describe business or social discussions.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: There is a bridge above the river.
Say: There is a bridge over the river. (We use over for crossing from one side to the other).
Don't say: I talked to her in the phone.
Say: I talked to her over the phone (or on the phone).
Rank and Elevation: How to Use the Preposition "ABOVE" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Above" and "Over" are cousins, but "above" is best used when you are talking about something being at a higher level, like a floor in a building or a rank in a job. Think of it as a measurement of height or importance!
1. Physical Height and Vertical Position
📘 Rule 1
Use "above" when something is at a higher level than another object, often emphasizing the distance between them.
• Elevation: The water came above our knees. We were flying above the clouds.
• Location: There is a mirror above the sink. Our neighbors live in the flat above us.
2. Rank, Importance, and Quantities
📘 Rule 2
Use "above" to show a higher rank in an organization or to indicate that a number is greater than a certain limit.
• Ranks: A captain in the navy ranks above a captain in the army. Six places above their rivals.
• Measurements: Temperatures have been above average. Children above the age of 10.
3. Character and Moral Standards
| Category |
Examples |
| Moral Character |
He is above suspicion (he is too honest to be suspected). |
| Behavior |
She is not above lying (she is capable of lying if needed). |
| Priority |
Quality should be above quantity. |
Use "above" for things that are not touching and in a fixed position. Use "over" when there is movement (e.g., The plane flew over the city) or when one thing covers another.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: He is over the age of 10.
Say: He is above the age of 10. (Use above for statistics and measurements).
Don't say: The temperature is more than 30 degrees.
Say: The temperature is above 30 degrees.
Lower Levels and Standards: How to Use the Preposition "BELOW" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Below" is the direct opposite of "above." I use it to teach students about limits—whether it’s a physical line on a page, a temperature on a thermometer, or a rank in a hierarchy. If "under" often suggests being covered, "below" simply suggests being at a lower level.
1. Physical Position and Boundaries
📘 Rule 1
Use "below" to describe something at a lower level or position relative to another point, or to indicate a boundary line.
• Lower Position: He dived below the surface of the water. Skirts will be worn below the knee.
• Boundaries: Please do not write below this line. The valley lies below the mountain peak.
2. Standards, Numbers, and Rank
📘 Rule 2
Use "below" when talking about measurements (like temperature), comparative quality, or professional hierarchy.
• Measurements: Temperatures remained below freezing (0°C).
• Quality/Standard: Her work was well below average for the class.
• Hierarchy: A police sergeant is below an inspector.
3. Comparing "Below" and "Under"
| Preposition |
Best Used For... |
| Below |
Levels, temperatures, and things that are not directly touching. |
| Under |
Being covered by something or being physically underneath (e.g., under the table). |
When you are looking at a document, use "below" to refer to information that comes later on the page. For example: "See the chart below for more details."
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: The temperature is under zero.
Say: The temperature is below zero.
Don't say: He is below the table.
Say: He is under the table. (Use under for physical objects directly over something).
Position and Control: How to Use the Preposition "UNDER" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Under" is one of my favorite prepositions because it covers so much ground! While it usually means something is physically beneath another object, we also use it to describe being "under the power" of something—whether that is a boss, a law, or even a feeling like stress.
1. Physical Position and Lower Values
📘 Rule 1
Use "under" when something is physically beneath another object or to show that a number or age is less than a specific amount.
• Location: Have you looked under the bed? She placed the ladder under the window.
• Lower Quantities: An income of under Rs. 10,000. It took us under an hour.
• Age Limits: Nobody under 18 is allowed to buy alcohol.
2. Authority, Control, and Processes
📘 Rule 2
Use "under" to show who is in charge or to describe a continuing action (process) that is happening right now.
• Government/Leadership: The country is under martial law. She has 20 staff working under her.
• Ongoing Processes: The hotel is still under construction. The matter is under investigation.
3. Being Affected by Pressure or Damage
| Context |
Examples |
| Physical Pressure |
The wall collapsed under the weight/damage. |
| Mental Pressure |
I’ve been feeling under stress lately. |
| Health |
He is a bit under the weather (feeling sick). |
When you are "under" someone at work, it means they are your supervisor or manager. It is a very common way to describe the hierarchy of a business!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: The temperature is under 10 degrees.
Say: The temperature is below 10 degrees. (Use below for measurements on a scale).
Don't say: There is a rug below the table.
Say: There is a rug under the table.
Preposition of Depth and Status: How to Use "BENEATH" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Beneath" is a more formal and literary cousin of "under." It often suggests being completely covered or hidden by something else. We also use it to talk about social status or personal dignity—when someone feels a task is not worthy of them.
1. Physical Position: Hidden or Covered
📘 Rule 1
Use "beneath" to describe something that is directly under another thing, often implying that it is pressed against it or completely obscured from view.
• Buried/Covered: They found the body buried beneath a pile of leaves.
• Submerged: The boat sank beneath the waves.
• Directly Under: The paper was beneath a stack of books.
2. Status and Personal Worth
📘 Rule 2
Use "beneath" figuratively to show that a person believes something is unworthy of their social standing or moral character.
• Work/Tasks: He considers such menial jobs beneath him.
• Social Standing: They thought she had married beneath her (married someone of a lower social class).
• Behavior: It is beneath his dignity to argue about such small matters.
3. Comparing "Beneath" vs. "Under" vs. "Below"
| Preposition |
Key Usage |
| Under |
The most common word for physical position or being less than a number. |
| Below |
Used for measurements (temperature/altitude) or things on a lower scale. |
| Beneath |
Formal; implies being hidden, deep under, or unworthy of someone. |
If you are writing a story or a poem, "beneath" sounds much more elegant than "under." For example: "The earth shifted beneath their feet" sounds more dramatic than "under their feet."
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: It is under his dignity.
Say: It is beneath his dignity.
Don't say: The treasure is beneath 10 meters deep.
Say: The treasure is under/over 10 meters deep. (Don't use beneath for specific numerical measurements).
Preposition of Separation: How to Use "OFF" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
Think of "off" as the opposite of "on." If "on" means contact and connection, "off" means separation, removal, or distance. Whether you are falling down or taking a break from work, you are moving away from a previous state or place.
1. Movement Away and Physical Distance
📘 Rule 1
Use "off" to describe moving down from a higher position, staying away from an area, or deviating from a topic.
• Physical Fall: I fell off the ladder.
• Prohibition: Keep off the grass!
• Abstract Distance: Finding a cure is a long way off. We’re getting right off the subject.
2. Removal and Detachment
📘 Rule 2
Use "off" when something is being taken away from a surface or when a part is being separated from the whole.
• Opening: Take the top off the bottle.
• Cutting: I want about an inch off the back of my hair.
• Clearing: Please take your books off the table.
3. Absence from Duty and Reduced Prices
| Category |
Examples |
| Work/School |
He’s had ten days off school. She is off duty today. |
| Discounts |
They knocked Rs. 10,000 off the car. There is 20% off all shoes. |
| Condition |
The milk smells a bit off (spoiled). |
In English, we often use "off" to describe a discount. If a shop says "Rs. 500 off," it literally means they have removed that amount from the total price you have to pay.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: He fell from the horse.
Say: He fell off the horse. (Use off for falling from a surface or position).
Don't say: I have a day away from work.
Say: I have a day off work.
Movement and Transformation: How to Use "INTO" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
Think of "into" as a preposition of action. Unlike "in," which describes where something already is, "into" shows the process of moving from the outside to the inside, or changing from one thing into something completely new. It is the preposition of "entry" and "change."
1. Physical Entry and Movement Inside
📘 Rule 1
Use "into" to express movement that ends inside a space, container, or substance.
• Entering a Space: Come into the house. She dived into the water.
• Placing Inside: He threw the letter into the fire. Put the keys into your pocket.
2. Change of State or Condition
📘 Rule 2
Use "into" to describe transformation, translation, or a shift into a new emotional or political state.
• Transformation: The fruit can be made into jam. Water turns into ice.
• Translation: Can you translate this passage into German?
• Status/Emotion: They came into power in 2008. She was sliding into depression.
3. Investigations and Mathematics
| Context |
Examples |
| Concerning/About |
An inquiry into safety procedures. Looking into the matter. |
| Division |
Five into twenty-five is five. (How many times it fits). |
| Interest |
He is really into digital content creation lately. |
Remember: "In" shows position (The cat is in the box), while "Into" shows movement (The cat jumped into the box). If there is no action or change, you probably don't need "into."
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: He walked in the room. (unless he was already walking inside it)
Say: He walked into the room. (entry from outside).
Don't say: Five by five is twenty-five. (in the context of division inquiry)
Say: Five into twenty-five goes five times.
Connection and Groups: How to Use the Preposition "AMONG" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"Among" is the preposition of community and clusters. While "between" is usually for two things, "among" is for when you are part of a larger group or surrounded by many things. I like to tell my students: if you can't count the individual items easily because they are all around you, use "among"!
1. Surrounded by People or Things
📘 Rule 1
Use "among" when someone or something is in the middle of a larger, often uncounted group of items or people.
• Surroundings: There is a house among the trees. They strolled among the crowds.
• Mixed In: I found the letter among his papers.
• Social Setting: Don't worry, you’re among friends now.
2. Inclusion and Collective Actions
📘 Rule 2
Use "among" to show that someone is part of a list or that a behavior is shared within a specific group.
• One of Many: A British woman was among the survivors. He was among the last to leave.
• Group Behavior: This attitude is common among the under-25s.
• Shared Action: Please discuss the project among yourselves first.
3. "Between" vs. "Among": Making the Choice
| Preposition |
How to Decide |
| Between |
Use for two distinct people or things (e.g., between Kathmandu and Pokhara). |
| Among |
Use for three or more people, or a group that isn't clearly separated. |
"Amongst" is sometimes used instead of "among," especially in British English. They mean the same thing, but "among" is much more common in modern speech and digital content!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: Share the sweets between all the students.
Say: Share the sweets among all the students.
Don't say: He was hidden between the trees. (unless there are only two trees)
Say: He was hidden among the trees.
Subject and Approximation: How to Use "ABOUT" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
"About" is one of the most common prepositions in English. It helps us define the "topic" of our thoughts and conversations, or it acts as a safety net when we aren't 100% sure of an exact number or location. Think of it as meaning "in the area of."
1. Subjects and Topics
📘 Rule 1
Use "about" to introduce the theme or subject matter of a conversation, book, or piece of writing.
• Conversation: We are talking about the book.
• Writing/Formal Work: I am writing an essay about ‘nationalism’.
• Curiosity: I’m curious about your new project.
2. Approximation: Time and Numbers
📘 Rule 2
Use "about" when you want to give an estimate rather than an exact figure for quantities or time.
• Quantities: There are about 500 students in my school.
• Clock Time: We reached there at about 5:30.
• Distance: The shop is about two kilometers away.
3. General Location: "Somewhere Near"
| Usage |
Examples |
| General Area |
I was lost somewhere about Ratna Park yesterday. |
| Movement |
She was walking about the garden. |
| Availability |
Is there any water about? (Is there water nearby?) |
When you are telling a story, use "about" to keep the flow natural. Instead of saying "At exactly 10:02 PM," say "About 10 o'clock." It sounds much more conversational!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: We are discussing about the problem.
Say: We are discussing the problem (OR: We are talking about the problem).
Don't say: There were around of 10 people.
Say: There were about 10 people.
Connection and Tools: How to Use the Preposition "WITH" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
With is one of the most useful tools in your vocabulary. It acts like glue, connecting people to their belongings, workers to their tools, and emotions to the people feeling them. I often tell my students to think of with as a bridge that brings two things together in the same space or action!
1. Possession and Characteristics
📘 Rule 1
Use "with" to describe features a person has or items they are carrying.
• Physical Features: A boy with curly hair. A child with a broken leg.
• Carrying/Wearing: A man with a stick. A coat with a belt.
2. Tools, Instruments, and Company
📘 Rule 2
Use "with" to identify the instrument used to complete a task or to show who is joining an activity.
• Instruments: Draw with a pencil. Cut it with a knife. Feed the baby with a spoon.
• Company: I live with my parents. They went on holiday with a friend.
3. Manner and Emotional Adjectives
| Category |
Common Examples |
| Manner/Way |
Do it with pleasure. Welcomed her with open arms. |
| Positive Feelings |
Pleased with, satisfied with, delighted with. |
| Negative Feelings |
Angry with, furious with, bored with. |
When you are angry with someone, it's usually a person. If you are angry at something, it's often a situation. For example: "I am angry with my brother because I'm angry at the mess he made."
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: I wrote the letter by a pen.
Say: I wrote the letter with a pen. (Use with for the physical tool).
Don't say: She is angry at me.
Say: She is angry with me. (Though at is sometimes used in casual speech, with is the standard for people).
Pathways and Persistence: How to Use the Preposition "THROUGH" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
Through is the preposition of passage. It describes entering one side of a tunnel and coming out the other, or using a specific method to reach a goal. Whether you are looking through a lens or working through the night, it implies a journey from start to finish!
1. Movement from One Side to the Other
📘 Rule 1
Use "through" to describe movement into one side and out of the other side of an enclosed space or area.
• Physical Movement: A river flows through my village. We drove through the tunnel.
• Visual Passage: You can see the germs through a microscope. I looked through the window.
2. Method, Means, and Time
📘 Rule 2
Use "through" to show the reason for success or to describe something lasting from the beginning to the end of a period.
• By Means Of: You can get success through persistent hard work. They found the house through an advertisement.
• Duration: The children cannot stay in the concert through the night. He slept through the entire movie.
3. Comparing "Through" and "Across"
| Preposition |
Best Used For... |
| Through |
Moving inside a 3D space (forest, crowd, pipe, city). |
| Across |
Moving on a flat 2D surface (road, bridge, field). |
If you are halfway through a book, it means you have finished 50% of it. Using through in this way is perfect for tracking your progress in curriculum development or reading!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: We walked across the woods.
Say: We walked through the woods. (Because trees are all around you).
Don't say: I learned English for hard work.
Say: I learned English through hard work.
Possession and Origin: How to Use the Preposition "OF" Correctly
🖊 From the Teacher
Of is the preposition of belonging. It acts like a connector that tells us who owns what, where someone comes from, or how much of something we have. While it is a small word, it carries the weight of relationships and measurements in almost every sentence we speak!
1. Possession and Background
📘 Rule 1
Use "of" to show that something belongs to a person or thing, or to describe a person’s origin and background.
• Belonging: A friend of Mohan. The lid of the box. A member of the team.
• Roles & Feelings: The love of a mother. The role of the teacher.
• Origin: A woman of Italian descent. The people of Wales.
2. Measurements, Age, and Time
📘 Rule 2
Use "of" to connect quantities to the items being measured, and to specify ages or dates.
• Quantities: Two kilos of potatoes. An increase of 2%.
• Personal Details: A girl of 12 (age). The year of his birth.
• Dates: The fourth of July.
3. Actions and Subjects
| Context |
Examples |
| Arrival/Departure |
The arrival of the police. |
| Opinions/Feelings |
Criticism of the government. Fear of the dark. |
| Natural Sounds |
The howling of the wind. The chirping of birds. |
We often use "of" for things, but an apostrophe ('s) for people. For example: "The leg of the table" sounds better than "The table's leg," but "Mohan's book" sounds more natural than "The book of Mohan."
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't say: A bottle with water. (when referring to the amount)
Say: A bottle of water.
Don't say: She is a girl with 10 years old.
Say: She is a girl of 10.
Common Mistakes ESL Learners Make With Prepositions
Prepositions are one of the most common areas of error for ESL and EFL learners. Here are the most frequent mistakes to avoid.
❌ She arrived to the airport. → ✅ She arrived at the airport.
❌ I am good in English. → ✅ I am good at English.
❌ He is married with her. → ✅ He is married to her.
❌ We discussed about the problem. → ✅ We discussed the problem. (no preposition needed)
❌ She entered into the room. → ✅ She entered the room. (no preposition needed)
❌ I will meet you on night. → ✅ I will meet you at night.
❌ He is waiting since two hours. → ✅ He has been waiting for two hours.
❌ She is listening music. → ✅ She is listening to music.
❌ He depends in his parents. → ✅ He depends on his parents.
❌ I am agree to you. → ✅ I agree with you.
Practice Exercises: Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct preposition to complete each sentence. Answers are given below.
- She has lived here ________ 2015. (since / for)
- The meeting is ________ Monday morning. (at / on / in)
- He is very good ________ playing chess. (in / at / on)
- They walked ________ the bridge to reach the other side. (across / through / along)
- The letter was written ________ the principal. (with / by / from)
- I have been studying ________ three hours. (since / for / during)
- She is afraid ________ the dark. (of / from / about)
- Please submit your report ________ Friday. (until / by / before)
Answer Key
- since — a specific starting point in time
- on — used with days of the week
- at — fixed collocation: good at
- across — movement from one side to the other
- by — used for the agent in a passive sentence
- for — used with a duration or period of time
- of — fixed collocation: afraid of
- by — means no later than a deadline
From the Teacher
🖊 From the Teacher
In my twenty years of teaching English, I have seen prepositions confuse learners more than almost any other grammar point. The most common problem is not that students don't know what a preposition is — they do. The real struggle is with collocations: students say "discuss about" or "married with" because those patterns feel logical in their mother tongue. My best advice is this: stop trying to translate prepositions word for word. Instead, learn them as chunks. Write the whole phrase — interested in, good at, depend on — and practise it until it feels natural. That habit alone will eliminate half of your preposition mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prepositions
1. What is a preposition in simple terms?
A preposition is a word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and another word in the sentence. It usually tells us about place, time, direction, cause, or manner. Common examples include in, on, at, for, by, and with.
2. What is the difference between "in," "on," and "at"?
For place: in is used for enclosed spaces or areas (in the room, in London); on is used for surfaces or floors (on the table, on the second floor); at is used for specific points or locations (at the door, at the station). The same rule applies to time: in for months, years, seasons; on for days and dates; at for exact times.
3. Can a sentence end with a preposition?
Yes, in modern English it is perfectly acceptable — and often more natural — to end a sentence with a preposition. For example: "Who are you talking to?" is correct and natural. Avoiding it can sometimes make a sentence sound unnecessarily formal or awkward.
4. What is the difference between "since" and "for"?
Since refers to a specific point in time when something started: since 2019, since Monday. For refers to a length or duration of time: for three years, for a long time. Both are commonly used with the present perfect tense.
5. Why do some verbs not need a preposition after them?
Some verbs in English are transitive — they take a direct object without any preposition. For example, discuss, reach, enter, and resemble are used directly before the object. Saying "discuss about" or "enter into the room" is a very common ESL error. Always check whether a verb requires a preposition or not.
Related Grammar Lessons
- Parts of Speech in English Grammar
- Conjunctions: All Types With Rules and Examples
- Articles A, An, The — Complete Rules for ESL Learners
- Phrasal Verbs With Prepositions: Common Examples
- Noun Phrases and Prepositional Phrases Explained
- Passive Voice: How to Use "By" Correctly
- Subject-Verb Agreement Rules With Examples
About the Author
Dharma Poudel has completed an MA and MEd in English and has been teaching English for 20 years. He specializes in creating simple, clear grammar lessons for ESL/EFL learners at all levels. His mission is to help learners build confidence through structured explanations and interactive practice materials.