The Art of Word Play
Linda Green
Prepositions show the relationship between words in a sentence, indicating direction, location, time, and other connections. This guide will help you understand their proper usage.
Common Prepositions
- Location: in, on, at, under, above
- Time: before, after, during, since, until
- Movement: to, from, through, across, into
Preposition Rules
Important rules to remember:
- Prepositions are always followed by a noun or pronoun
- They never end a sentence (except in informal writing)
- Some verbs require specific prepositions
Common Preposition Mistakes
Common errors to avoid:
- Using the wrong preposition (e.g., listen to vs listen for)
- Ending sentences with prepositions in formal writing
- Mixing up similar prepositions (e.g., in vs on vs at)
Preposition Phrases
Preposition phrases consist of a preposition and its object:
- in the morning
- on the table
- by the river
Conclusion
Prepositions are essential for clear communication. By understanding their proper usage, you can create more precise and effective sentences.