English prepositions
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In this chapter the prepositions in English will be explained. Prepositions are used to define a relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in the sentence.
Lesson outline
HideWhat is a preposition?
A preposition is a word that defines a relationship between words in a sentence. It can describe for example the time, the position or the movement of something.
Prepositions in English examples:
- I have sent a postcard to my grandmother.
- We were waiting for him in front of the church.
- He came into the kitchen, when we were cooking.
They can also accompany a verb, forming the phrasal verbs. These are combinations of a verb and a preposition. The meaning of the phrasal verb is different from the original one.
Examples:
- They broke up two months ago.
- He doesn't agree with you on this subject.
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Placement of prepositions
The prepositions can be placed in two different positions in the sentence:
- Before the noun in affirmative sentences.
Example: I am walking to the supermarket. - At the end of the sentence in questions with interrogative pronouns (who, what, where, when, why)
Example: Where are we going to?
Types of prepositions in English
There are approximately 150 different prepositions in English. There are different types of prepositions, but the three main categories are shown in the following table:
| Type of prepositions | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Prepositions of time | These prepositions indicate the time of a certain event or situation. |
|
| Prepositions of place | These prepositions indicate the position of something or someone. |
|
| Prepositions of movement | These prepositions indicate the movement of something or someone. |
|
English preposition 'about' with noun and 'about' with infinitive
Some prepositions in English do not belong to one of the categroes as described above. Below you can find an example of one of those prepositions:
'About' is used to talk about a specific topic. The table below shows the usage of 'about'.
| Form | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| About + noun | Used to describe what the subject of something is or what someone is talking about. |
|
| About + infinitive | Used to say that something is going to happen soon. |
|
Prepositions 'in', 'at', or 'on' in English
The three English prepositions 'in', 'at' and 'on' can be used in different ways, not just for a place.
- She is not interested in buying a car.
- We will meet at 3 o'clock.
- The house is on fire.
Verbs and prepositions in English
Some English verbs are followed by prepositions, because this important for the meaning of the verb in a sentence.
- She borrowed a jacket from her mother.
- They participated in a contest.
- We dream of becoming a famous band.
Prepositions with adjectives in English
Some English adjectives need to be combined with a preposition, because it is essential for the meaning of the adjective.
- The Netherlands is famous for its windmills.
- Julia is interested in playing volleyball.
- My mother is married to my father.
Take a look at the subchapters of this chapter to learn more about the prepositions in English, including a list of common prepositions used in English.
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