30 Common Prepositions in English: Definition, Examples, and ESL Tips

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What Are Prepositions in English Grammar?

A preposition is a word that connects a noun or pronoun to other parts of the sentence. Prepositions show relationships of time, place, direction, reason, or method.

They are essential in everyday English and are often tested in TOEIC, EIKEN, IELTS, and everyday conversation.


✅ Top 30 Prepositions in English with Easy Example Sentences

PrepositionExample Sentence
aboutThis book is about animals.
aboveThe lamp is above the table.
acrossShe ran across the street.
afterI brush my teeth after breakfast.
againstThe chair is leaning against the wall.
alongWe walked along the river.
amongThe secret was hidden among the papers.
aroundThe store is just around the corner.
atLet’s meet at 3 p.m.
beforeHe left before lunch.
behindThe keys are behind the TV.
belowIt’s below freezing today.
beneathThe toy is beneath the couch.
besideShe sat beside her friend.
betweenThe cafe is between the bank and the post office.
beyondThe road continues beyond the hills.
byThe cake was made by my mom.
downHe fell down the stairs.
duringPlease don’t talk during the test.
exceptEveryone was invited except John.
forThis is a gift for you.
fromI got this present from my sister.
inThe shoes are in the closet.
insideIt’s cold inside the house.
intoShe went into the room quietly.
nearThe station is near the supermarket.
ofA slice of pizza.
onThe paper is on the desk.
overHe jumped over the fence.
underThe dog is under the bed.

🔄 How to Practice Prepositions in English

Here are 5 quick ways to improve your use of prepositions:

  1. 🔸 Write daily journal entries using as many prepositions as you can.
  2. 🔸 Label items around your home using sticky notes and prepositions.
  3. 🔸 Record yourself saying sentences like “The pen is under the table.”
  4. 🔸 Watch English videos with subtitles and pause to spot prepositions.
  5. 🔸 Join a grammar class or work with an online teacher (like us!).

🎯 Why Prepositions Matter in English Learning

  • ✔ Used in 80% of daily English communication
  • ✔ Common in EIKEN, TOEIC, and business emails
  • ✔ Help you sound more fluent and professional
  • ✔ Improve writing, speaking, and comprehension

📌 Bonus: Try This Preposition Quiz

Which preposition fits?

The ball is ___ the box.
A) in
B) between
C) under
D) All of the above! ✔️


🚀 Ready to Improve Your Grammar Fast?

At MK’s English, we offer private English lessons, group grammar workshops, and online ESL courses for all levels. Start speaking naturally, confidently, and clearly.

👉 Check out our free grammar lessons here.
👉 Or book a trial class today at MKsEnglish.com