Where are your keys? Where is the cat? Prepositions of place are the small but powerful words that answer these questions, helping you describe the location of everything around you. 📍
Function & Usage
We use prepositions of place to show the relationship between a noun (a person, place, or thing) and another word in the sentence. They tell us exactly where something is.
- In: Used for enclosed spaces or larger areas.
Example: The milk is in the refrigerator. I live in London. - On: Used for surfaces.
Example: Your glasses are on the desk. The clock is on the wall. - Under: Used for something that is below or beneath something else.
Example: The cat is sleeping under the chair. - Next to / By: Used for something that is beside something else.
Example: The pharmacy is next to the bank. He is standing by the door. - Between: Used for something in the middle of two other things.
Example: The spoon is between the fork and the knife.
The Structure (Form)
The structure is very consistent and simple. It typically follows the verb ‘to be’.
[Thing] + [is/are] + [preposition] + [the] + [Place/Object].
Example: The book is on the table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing “in” and “on”: This is a very common error. Remember: `in` is for inside something (a box, a room, a country), and `on` is for a surface (a table, a floor, a wall).
- Forgetting the noun: A preposition must be followed by a noun that tells you the location. Incorrect: “The cat is under.” Correct: “The cat is under the bed.”
Let’s see it in action! 🎬
Person A: Where are my keys? I can’t find them.
Person B: I think they are on the kitchen counter.
Person A: No, I found them! They were in my pocket.
Person A: Excuse me, is this seat free?
Person B: Yes, it is. I am sitting here, next to the window. My friend is between me and the aisle.
Parent: Have you seen the dog?
Child: Yes, he’s sleeping under the sofa again. He loves it there!
Check Your Understanding! ✅
1. The book is the shelf.
2. My phone is my bag.
3. The dog is sleeping the table.
4. I live a big city.
5. The picture is the wall.
6. The lamp is ___ the two chairs.
7. I will meet you ___ the coffee shop.
8. The children are playing ___ the park.
9. The supermarket is ___ the post office.
10. Put your shoes ___ the door, please.
