Prepositions of time and place

Prepositions of time and place

by Gerlaine Agbayani

​In, when used as a preposition of time, is usually used to represent an unspecific amount of time or a more general time period that isn’t specific. Here are some examples:​

• I like to swim in summer.

• I should be home in a week or two.

• John turned 18 in 1996.

When used as a preposition of place this time, in usually refers to something being inside an enclosed space of some kind, or in a larger space. Here are some examples to make that a little clearer:​

• ​Tim was waiting in the car.

• Paris is located in France.

• The best food can be found in the centerof the city.

As a preposition of time, on refers to a specific date. Take a look:​

• I’ll be home on Sunday.

• Let’s go out to eat on Valentines Day.

• Jenny has to go to the dentist on the 15th Feb.​

On, when we use it as a preposition of place instead of time, usually indicates that something is situated on top of something else, or somewhere more specific in a larger area. Let’s take a look at some examples:​

• You should head to the theatre on Second Street.

• The apple was on the table.

• James was looking for a doctors office on Main Street.​

​When used as a preposition of time, at indicates a specific time. The following are some examples of how it can be used correctly:

• Meet me in the park at 6pm.

• The movie starts at 7.

• Snow usually falls at Christmas time.​

As a preposition of place instead of time, at can be used to show a certain point. It is the most specific of the three prepositions to indicate a specific place. Take a look at some examples:​

• You can find my office at 612 Made Up Street.

• I picked this book up at the library.

• I had to ask for a refund at the store.​

Multiple Choice

She was born ___ 1996. 

• in

• on

• at

Multiple Choice

I will meet him ___ Monday.

• in

• on

• at

Multiple Choice

I was very happy ___ my first day of work.

• in

• on

• at

Multiple Choice

The shop closes ___ 10 pm.

• in

• on

• at

Multiple Choice

He gets up early ___ the morning.

• in

• on

• at

Multiple Choice

I met him ___ the bus stop.

• in

• on

• at