Prepositions are words that link a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase to some other part of the sentence. Prepositions can be tricky for English learners. There is no definite rule or formula for choosing a preposition.
| Example Sentences | How to use the preposition |
- The keys were on the table.
- The paper is on my desk.
| Used to express a surface of something |
- Her birthday is on July 19.
- The paper is on my desk.
| Used to specify days and dates |
- He is on the phone right now.
- The paper is on my desk.
| Used to indicate a device or machine, such as a phone or computer |
- He kissed her on the forehead.
- The paper is on my desk.
| Used to indicate a part of the body |
- The building is on fire.
- The shirts are on sale.
| Used to indicate the state of something |
| Example Sentences | How to use the preposition |
- We will visit them in the summer.
- The new semester starts in March.
| Used for unspecific times during a day, month, season, year |
- I bought these shoes in Italy.
- I am staying in a hotel.
| Used to indicate a location or place |
- I bought a sweater in red.
- The students sat in a circle.
| Used to indicate a shape, color, or size |
- I believe in God.
- I am not interested in cooking.
| Used to indicate a belief, opinion, interest, or feeling |
Directions: Fill in the blanks with either "in" "on" or "at"
1) We are getting married __________ France.
2) Our school play is __________ my birthday.
3) The reception is __________ 5:00 pm.
4) I exercise __________ the gym.
5) She is good __________ playing chess.
6) I live __________ the top floor.
7) We waited for them __________ the lobby.
8) He keeps looking __________ me.
9) She gave me a tap __________ my shoulder.
Directions: Fill in the blanks with either "at" "in" or "on"
1) My dog is sleeping __________ my bed.
2) Her birthday is __________ May.
3) His birthday is __________ May 21st.
4) Let's meet __________ 11 o'clock.
5) There is a concert __________ the stadium.
6) I forget my phone __________ work.
7) My son likes to sit __________ the floor.
8) My wife is waiting __________ the car.
9) She was born __________ 1982.
Quiz 1 Answers
1) a. in
2) b. on
3) c. at
4) c. at
5) c. at
6) b. on
7) a. in
8) c. at
9) b. on
Quiz 2 Answers
1) on
2) in
3) on
4) at
5) at
6) at
7) on
8) in
9) in
