The Preposition (The Relation Word)

Conceptual Definition

A Preposition is a word placed before a noun or a pronoun to show its relationship to another word in the sentence. It typically indicates Direction, Time, Place, or Manner.

The noun or pronoun that follows a preposition is called its Object.

Example: The book is on the table. (Here, “on” shows the spatial relationship between the “book” and the “table”).

Classifications of Prepositions

To master this part of speech, we categorize prepositions based on their functional use:

Prepositions of Place and Position

These describe where an object is located.

In: Used for enclosed spaces or large geographical areas (In the room, in London).
At: Used for a specific point or address (At the entrance, at 10 Downing Street).
On: Used for surfaces (On the floor, on the page).
Between/Among: “Between” is used for two entities; “Among” is used for three or more.

Prepositions of Time

These indicate when an event occurs.

At: Specific times (At 5:00 PM, at midnight).
On: Days and dates (On Monday, on August 15th).
In: Months, years, seasons, or long periods (In 2024, in the summer).
Since/For: “Since” refers to a specific starting point; “For” refers to a duration of time.

Prepositions of Direction/Motion

These show movement toward a destination.

To: Direction toward a specific goal (Go to school).
Into: Movement toward the interior of something (Jump into the pool).
Across: Movement from one side to another (Walk across the bridge).

Advanced General Rules

Professional writing requires strict adherence to these specific prepositional nuances:

Avoid Ending with a Preposition (Formal)

In highly formal writing, try to avoid ending a sentence with a preposition.
Informal: This is the person I was talking to.
Formal: This is the person to whom I was talking.

Beside vs. Besides

Beside: Means “next to.” (Sit beside me.)
Besides: Means “in addition to.” (Besides milk, we need bread.)

Appropriate Prepositions (Fixed Prepositions)

Certain words are always followed by specific prepositions.

Abide by the rules.
Accused of a crime.
Interested in art.

No Preposition Needed

Some verbs do not require a preposition when followed by an object.

Incorrect: He ordered for a pizza.

Correct: He ordered a pizza.