Grammar basics
Prepositions
A preposition is a small word that shows how two things are connected, often by place, time or direction. It usually comes before a noun or pronoun.
What does a preposition do?
- Place: The book is on the desk.
- Time: The meeting is at 3 p.m.
- Direction: I walk to the office.
In, on, at for time
These three words are very common, and many learners mix them up. Here is a simple rule:
| Word | Use it for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| in | months, years, long times | in October, in 2026, in the morning |
| on | days and dates | on Monday, on October 5 |
| at | exact times | at 9 a.m., at noon, at night |
Learn them in phrases
Prepositions often don't follow clear rules. It is easier to learn them as a group of words, like good at coding, interested in AI or listen to music.
Types of prepositions
There are three main types of prepositions. Each type has its own page with more words.
| Type | What it shows | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Prepositions of time | When? | at 5 p.m., in July, on Monday |
| Prepositions of place | Where is it? | in the room, on the desk |
| Prepositions of direction | Where is it going? | to the store, through the door |
In
Inside a place, or during a period of time.
I live in Bangkok.
On
Touching the top of something, or on a certain day.
My phone is on the table.
At
At a certain point in place or time.
I start work at nine o'clock.
Under
Below something.
The cat is sleeping under my desk.
From
Showing where something starts or comes from.
I'm from Thailand.
With
Together with someone or something.
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