20 Examples of Prepositions In Sentences
Prepositions are an essential part of English grammar, acting as links between nouns, pronouns, and other words in a sentence. They indicate relationships involving direction, place, time, and manner, among others. Understanding how to use prepositions effectively can significantly enhance the clarity and coherence of writing. Here, we present 22 examples of prepositions in sentences, showcasing their versatility and importance in the English language.
1. Understanding Prepositions of Place
Prepositions of place are used to show the location or position of something. Common prepositions of place include in, on, and at.
Example 1: The cat is on the roof. In this sentence, “on” indicates the location of the cat relative to the roof.
Example 2: She lives in New York City. Here, “in” shows the relationship between where she lives and New York City.
Example 3: We will meet at the park. “At” specifies the particular location where the meeting will occur.
2. Exploring Prepositions of Time
Prepositions of time are used to denote specific points in time or durations. Common prepositions of time include at, on, and in.
Example 4: The concert starts at 7 PM. “At” is used to indicate the exact time the concert begins.
Example 5: She was born on January 15th. In this sentence, “on” specifies the exact date of her birth.
Example 6: They will arrive in an hour. “In” is used to show the duration of time before their arrival.
3. Using Prepositions of Direction
Prepositions of direction indicate the movement of something from one place to another. Common examples include to, into, and towards.
Example 7: She walked to the store. “To” shows the direction of her movement toward the store.
Example 8: He jumped into the pool. In this sentence, “into” indicates the movement from outside to inside the pool.
Example 9: The car is heading towards the city. “Towards” denotes the direction in which the car is moving.
4. Demonstrating Prepositions of Manner
Prepositions of manner describe how something is done. Common prepositions of manner include by, with, and like.
Example 10: She wrote the letter by hand. “By” indicates the manner in which the letter was written.
Detailed Analysis of Prepositions in Complex Sentences
5. Combining Multiple Prepositions
Complex sentences often use multiple prepositions to convey detailed information. Understanding how to combine prepositions correctly can add depth to writing.
Example 11: The book is on the table in the living room. In this sentence, “on” shows the book’s position relative to the table, while “in” indicates the table’s location within the living room.
Example 12: She will arrive at the airport in the morning on Saturday. Here, “at” specifies the location, “in” denotes the time of day, and “on” indicates the day of the week.
6. Using Prepositional Phrases
Prepositional phrases consist of a preposition and its object, often providing additional context in a sentence.
Example 13: He sat beside the window with a book in his hand. This sentence uses “beside” to indicate position, “with” to describe the manner, and “in” to specify possession.
Example 14: The keys are under the mat by the door. “Under” shows the location of the keys relative to the mat, while “by” indicates the door’s proximity to the mat.
7. Identifying Prepositions in Questions
Questions often include prepositions to inquire about various relationships.
Example 15: Where did you get that dress from? “From” asks about the source or origin of the dress.
Example 16: What are you thinking about? “About” inquires into the subject of the thought.
8. Exploring Idiomatic Prepositional Phrases
Idiomatic expressions frequently use prepositions in ways that may not be immediately obvious to non-native speakers.
Example 17: He is in trouble with the law. “In” and “with” combine to form an idiomatic expression indicating legal difficulties.
Example 18: She is on top of the situation. “On top of” is an idiomatic phrase meaning she is in control or fully aware of the situation.
9. Differentiating Similar Prepositions
Some prepositions may seem similar but have distinct uses.
Example 19: The painting is above the sofa (not over). “Above” indicates a higher position without contact, while “over” might imply covering or touching.
Example 20: We walked through the forest (not by). “Through” indicates movement within something, while “by” suggests proximity or alongside.
10. Prepositions in Passive Constructions
In passive constructions, prepositions often follow certain verbs.
Example 21: The project was completed by the team. “By” indicates the agent performing the action in the passive voice.
Example 22: The report was submitted to the manager. “To” shows the direction of the action in the passive voice.
Conclusion
Prepositions play a crucial role in constructing meaningful and precise sentences in English. By understanding and mastering their use, one can significantly enhance both written and spoken communication. These examples provide a comprehensive guide to the various functions of prepositions, highlighting their importance and versatility.
