GCSE
English Language
1.1.7 Prepositions
In this lesson, we will explore what a preposition is, the different types of prepositions there are, and some examples of each. Prepositions are words that show the relationship between one thing and another. They often tell us about position, direction, time, or the way something is done. Prepositions are usually followed by a noun or pronoun and help give important details to a sentence. There are many types of prepositions, and while some are more common and useful to learn first, others will be mentioned briefly in this lesson.
Preposition
Prepositions are words that describes where something (noun) is placed (e.g. The book was behind the man, the man was in front of the book and therefore on top of my hopes and dreams).
To help remembering this definition, think of the word ‘position’ (where something is).Tip
A preposition is a word used to show the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and another word in the sentence. It often tells us where something is, when something happens, or how one thing relates to another. Prepositions are usually followed by a noun or pronoun to complete the phrase — this is called a prepositional phrase.
Some common types of prepositions include:
- Prepositions of place → in, on, under, over, next to, behind
- Prepositions of time → at, on, in, before, after, during
- Prepositions of direction/movement → to, from, into, out of, onto, off
- Prepositions of cause/agency → because of, due to, by, with
- Prepositions of manner/instrument → by, with, like, as
The cat is under the table. “Under” is a preposition showing the relationship between “the cat” and “the table.”Example
Some students mistakenly leave a preposition out or place it at the end of a sentence in formal writing when it’s not needed. For example: Also, avoid using more than one preposition when only one is needed:Common Mistake
Preposition
- A preposition shows the relationship between a noun (or pronoun) and another word in a sentence.
- Often tells where something is, when something happens, or how one thing relates to another.
- Usually followed by a noun or pronoun to form a prepositional phrase.
- Main types include:
- Prepositions of place → in, on, under, over, next to, behind
- Prepositions of time → at, on, in, before, after, during
- Prepositions of direction/movement → to, from, into, out of, onto, off
- Prepositions of cause/agency → because of, due to, by, with
- Prepositions of manner/instrument → by, with, like, as