Hello, English learners! Welcome to another fun lesson with English with Janet! Today, we’re diving into three common English prepositions that can be confusing, even for advanced learners: at, on, and in. These little words might seem simple, but knowing how to use them correctly can make your English sound much more natural. Let’s break down each one, look at specific examples, and clear up any confusion about how to choose the right preposition in various situations.
Ready to make “at,” “on,” and “in” your new best friends? Let’s get started!
1. Understanding Prepositions: “At,” “On,” and “In” Defined
Before we look at specific uses, let’s quickly define what each preposition generally means:
- At: Used to specify a point or exact location in time or place.
- On: Used to talk about specific days or to describe something’s surface.
- In: Used for larger, more general areas of time or space, like months, years, or cities.
2. How to Use “At” (With Examples)
The preposition “at” is often used for specific locations and precise times. Imagine a pinpoint on a map or a clock – that’s the level of specificity we’re aiming for with “at.”
2.1 Using “At” for Locations
- “I’m at the library.” – This refers to a specific point, like being inside or around the library.
- “Meet me at the restaurant.” – You’re meeting at a precise location, not just near it.
2.2 Using “At” for Times
- “The party starts at 7 PM.” – “At” is perfect for exact times.
- “Let’s meet at noon.” – Once again, it’s a specific time, so we use “at.”
2.3 Using “At” with Events and Places of Work
- “She’s at work.” – We use “at” to indicate her exact point of activity.
- “He’s at a concert.” – “At” works to show someone is precisely where the event is taking place.
3. How to Use “On” (With Examples)
The preposition “on” is typically used for days and dates or when talking about something’s position on a surface.
3.1 Using “On” for Dates and Days
- “My birthday is on September 23.” – “On” is perfect for dates.
- “She’s coming on Monday.” – We also use “on” to describe specific days of the week.
3.2 Using “On” for Surfaces
- “The book is on the table.” – “On” is about something physically being on top of another surface.
- “The painting is on the wall.” – “On” here shows its exact position on the surface of the wall.
3.3 Using “On” for Technology and Transportation
- “I saw it on TV.” – We use “on” for devices like TV, phone, radio, etc.
- “She’s on the bus.” – For most modes of public transport, like trains, planes, and buses, “on” is the right choice.
4. How to Use “In” (With Examples)
The preposition “in” has a broader scope, used for more general, enclosed areas of time and space.
4.1 Using “In” for Time Periods
- “My vacation is in July.” – “In” is perfect for months.
- “He was born in 1992.” – We also use “in” for years.
4.2 Using “In” for Enclosed Spaces and Locations
- “The keys are in the drawer.” – If it’s contained or surrounded, use “in.”
- “They live in London.” – Cities, countries, and larger areas call for “in.”
4.3 Using “In” for Parts of the Day
- “We’ll meet in the morning.” – Use “in” when referring to parts of the day like morning, afternoon, or evening.
- “He likes to run in the evening.”
Note: The exception here is for night, where we say “at night.”
5. Quick Reference Guide for “At,” “On,” and “In”
To make things a bit easier, here’s a quick-reference table for “at,” “on,” and “in.”
| Preposition |
Examples of Use |
Sample Sentences |
| At |
Specific time and location |
– “She’ll meet us at 5 PM.”
– “He’s at school.” |
| On |
Days, dates, surfaces |
– “The meeting is on Tuesday.”
– “It’s on the table.” |
| In |
Months, years, enclosed spaces |
– “Her birthday is in December.”
– “They’re in the car.” |
6. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake #1: Mixing up “On” and “At” with Times
- Incorrect: “I’ll meet you on 5 PM.”
- Correct: “I’ll meet you at 5 PM.”
Mistake #2: Using “In” for Specific Days
- Incorrect: “He’s leaving in Friday.”
- Correct: “He’s leaving on Friday.”
Mistake #3: Confusing “At” and “In” for Places
- Incorrect: “She’s in the beach.”
- Correct: “She’s at the beach.”
7. Practical Exercises: Test Your Understanding!
Let’s put your new knowledge to the test. Choose the right preposition for each sentence below.
- We have an appointment ___ Monday.
- I’ll meet you ___ the park.
- Her birthday is ___ September.
- The show starts ___ 8 PM.
- They are ___ the train.
Answers:
- on
- at
- in
- at
- on
8. Conclusion
Understanding when to use “at,” “on,” and “in” can be tricky, but it’s all about the specifics. If you remember that “at” is for exact points, “on” is for days and surfaces, and “in” is for general areas, you’ll quickly get the hang of it. Prepositions are a small detail that can make a big difference in how natural your English sounds!
Thanks for joining me on this little adventure through prepositions! I hope this clears up any doubts and gives you the confidence to use “at,” “on,” and “in” like a pro. Don’t forget to practice by writing down your own examples or even teaching someone else — it’s the best way to remember!
Happy learning, and see you in the next lesson!
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