Grammar Basics: Prepositions, Types of Prepositions and Examples

In this article, we explore the basics of prepositions and the various types of prepositions with examples.

Prepositions:

Prepositions are the words that link nouns, pronouns and phrases to other words in a sentence. The word or phrase that the preposition introduces is called the object of the preposition.
Example: The book is on the table.

A prepositional phrase is made up of the preposition, its object and any associated adjectives or adverbs. A prepositional phrase can function as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb.
Example: At home, in time.

Types of Prepositions

• Preposition for Time:
  Prepositions used for time of different natures are: "in, on, at" etc.
  Example: He was born in 1945.
• Preposition for Place: 
  Prepositions "in, on or at" are usually used for different places.
  Example: Students study in library.
• Preposition for Directions: 
  Prepositions like: "to, towards, through, into" are used to describe the direction.
  Example: She went to the library.
• Preposition for Agent: 
  Preposition for agent is used for a thing which is the cause of another thing in the sentence. Such prepositions are: "by, with" etc.
  Example: This book is written by Shakespeare.
• Preposition for Instrument: 
  Different prepositions are used by different devices, instruments or machines. E.g.: "by, with, on" etc. 
  Example: She comes by bus daily.

  NOTE: A preposition is always followed by a "noun". It is never followed by a verb.

Uses of prepositions

1. A CD is lying on the slab.
2. Chinki was playing in the lawn.

1. We had fun with the new toy.
2. There is some trouble with the switch.

1. We are excited about the new project.
2. The Champagne region is renowned for its wines.

1. They are listening to the recording.
2. Julienne has waited for her mother for 2 hours.

1. Our plane landed in the end.
2. They reached late for the show.

Prepositions: Key Learning

• Practice will help you to master the rules of Prepositions.
• Follow the simple tips given in the article and solve as many questions as you can.