English skills and support
Prepositions Prepositions are usually short words, for example: in, on, at, by, from, to, out. Each preposition has a particular meaning and it is important you know how they are used in sentences. There are other prepositions in English that can be used in different ways to the examples included here, and the exercises in this workbook will help you learn about some of those other uses.
Prepositions – time
in
on
Examples
duration of time
I will check the temperature in five minutes (in the future). I will check the plant growth in three days (in the future). I wake up early in the morning. I often go on holiday in the summer.
a precise time
The sun sets at 6 o’clock. I am learning science at the moment. Nocturnal animals hunt at night.
M
at
Usage
PL E
In, at, on are common prepositions. You can use these prepositions to talk about time or place.
I have football practice on Wednesday. My birthday is on 10th September.
Usage
Examples
SA
Prepositions – place
days and dates
in
in a space or area, or inside something
I live in a town/country. I plant seeds in a garden. Fish live in the water. My lessons are in a school. (Inside the building.)
at
a point or particular place
I write my notes at my desk. I write my name at the top. I meet my friends at school. (At this place.)
a surface
My book is on the table. Wood floats on water. My chair is on the floor.
on
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