If you learn English online, understanding when to use prepositions can cause quite a headache. We become so used to the way prepositions are used in our native tongue that using them in any other way can seem illogical or absurd.
Luckily, in English, we can identify many specific situations in which the in, on, and at prepositions are used in order to figure out when it is appropriate to use each one. These guidelines help us use the right preposition every time! Keep reading to learn more or discover online English grammar classes on Preply.
How to use in, on, and at prepositions
Two of the most common contexts in which in, at, and on are used involve identifying where someone or something is (place) and when something happened (time). The charts below explain when these prepositions should be used in different situations of time and place.
In, on & at as prepositions of place
| Preposition | Situations | Examples |
| at | at a very specific point, location, or place |
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| on | on a surface Exceptions: general street names and close to a river |
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| in | in an enclosed space, or a general area that contains borders or boundaries |
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| Note: When referring to buildings or other confined areas, both prepositions “at” and “in” can be used, depending on the context. If you would like to describe the general location of where someone/something is, you should use “at.” For example, “Mary is at the school.” However, if you need to emphasize that someone/something is inside the building or area, you can use “in.” For instance, “Mary is in the school.” | ||
In, on & at as prepositions of time
| Preposition | Situations | Examples |
| at | Specific Times
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| on | Specific Days and Dates
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| in | More General Times
Exception for Times of Day: morning, afternoon, evening |
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| *Note: In American English, the preposition “on” is used with weekends and holidays, as shown above. However, in British English and other varieties, the preposition “at” can be used with weekends and holidays. Learn more about this below. | ||
Preposition switching in American and British English
As mentioned above, one difference between American and British grammar is our use of in, on, and at prepositions. Below we’ve highlighted some examples, so you can feel confident using them no matter which type of English you wish to learn.
On and at:
- American English: Will you visit on the weekend?
- British English: Will you visit at the weekend?
In and for:
- American English: I haven’t visited in years!
- British English: I haven’t visited for years!
In and at:
- American English: I study law in school
- British English: I study law at school
These distinctions will help you sound more like a native speaker in either Britain or the US. That said, as Brits consume a lot of American media, they will know what you mean if you get confused.
At last, you know your in, on, and at prepositions!
Now that you have learned the various contexts in which in, at, and on prepositions are used with regard to time and place, you can begin to confidently use these prepositions in your speech and writing.
Despite our top tips, you may still be a little unsure. Don’t worry! Preply English tutors are also here to help. With personalized learning plans, flexible schedules, and many more benefits, you can find the perfect tutor with ease. No more guessing or fretting–your English improves now!
