Prepositions for Class 10

What are Prepositions?

Prepositions are words that show the relationship between a noun or a pronoun and other words in a sentence. They indicate location, direction, time or manner and the spatial relationship between objects. Prepositions are followed by an object in a sentence, which can be a noun or a pronoun. Although there may be other words between them, a prepositional phrase begins with a preposition and ends with a noun or pronoun, acting as the object.

Confusing Pairs of Prepositions

1. Ago and Before

→ "Ago" is used to describe the time that has elapsed since a specific moment in the past.
→ "Before" is a preposition indicating a point in time preceding a particular event or another point in time.

Examples:

→ A decade ago, the global community witnessed a paradigm shift in the way information is disseminated, owing to the rise of social media platforms.
→ Long before the advent of modern medicine, ancient civilisations relied on herbal remedies and spiritual rituals to heal ailments.

2. For and During

→ "For" is a versatile preposition that indicates a purpose, duration, recipient, or cause.
→ "During" is a preposition that refers to a specific time within a particular period.

Examples:

→ The gift was intended for her, a token of appreciation for her outstanding contributions to the project.
→ The students remained attentive during the lecture, absorbing the professor's insightful explanations on quantum physics.

3. Below, Under and Beneath

→ "Below" indicates a lower position about something else.
→ "Under" denotes a position directly beneath or beneath the surface of something.
→ "Beneath" implies a lower level or position, often suggesting something covered or hidden by another object.

Examples:

→ Below the towering cliffs, hidden caves harboured ancient artefacts, unveiling secrets of a bygone era.
→ Under the intricately woven tapestry, a hidden passage led to a chamber filled with priceless treasures.
→ Beneath the facade of routine, profound emotions simmered, waiting for the opportune moment to surface and be acknowledged.

4. In and Within

→ "In" is a preposition that denotes location or position within an enclosed space, a limit, or a container. It can also indicate a state or condition.
→ "Within" is a preposition indicating that something is inside or enclosed by certain limits, boundaries or conditions. It emphasizes a sense of containment or proximity.

Examples:

→ Amidst the labyrinth of towering bookshelves, the elusive manuscript lay hidden in a forgotten corner, waiting to be discovered.
→ The artist's creativity knows no bounds; within the confines of her studio, she transforms ordinary canvases into captivating masterpieces.

5. Of and Off

→ "Of" is used to indicate possession, origin, relationship, or content. It is often employed to show a connection between two nouns, expressing the idea that one thing belongs to or is a part of another.
→ “Off" typically denotes separation, removal, or a state of being no longer in contact with something. It can also indicate a point of departure or cessation of an action.

Examples:

→ The essence of a good education extends beyond textbooks to encompass critical thinking and practical skills.
→ He hurriedly stepped off the stage after delivering an impassioned speech to the audience.

6. Above and Over

→ "Above" denotes a higher position or level about something else. It can indicate physical elevation or a figurative position.
→ "Over" also indicates a higher position or movement from one side to another. It can be used to express physical elevation or a transition from one place or state to another.

Examples:

→ The eagle soared high above the mountains, its majestic wings casting a shadow on the rugged peaks below.
→ The spacecraft smoothly glided over the Earth's atmosphere, entering the vast expanse of outer space with a sense of awe-inspiring grace.

7. In and Into

→ "In" is a preposition indicating location or position within a space. It denotes being enclosed or surrounded by something.
→ "Into" is a preposition indicating movement or direction towards the inside of something.

Examples:

→ The children continued playing in the park, finding shelter under the sturdy oak tree despite the thunderstorm.
→ With a swift and graceful dive, the acrobat leapt from the platform and soared into the air, performing a series of breathtaking somersaults.

8. On and Onto

→ "On" is a preposition indicating position or location in a general sense. It is used to show that something is positioned or located on a surface, touching it.
→ "Onto" is also a preposition, but it conveys movement or direction, suggesting that something is moving or being placed onto a surface.

Examples:

→ Despite the chaos in the room, she managed to find her keys on the cluttered desk.
→ With a swift motion, the acrobat leapt onto the narrow beam, showcasing incredible balance and precision.

9. Near and Next to

→ "Near" indicates proximity or closeness in space or time. It suggests a short distance or a small amount of time between objects or events.
→ "Next to" denotes immediate adjacency or side-by-side placement of objects. It implies that two things are positioned beside each other.

Examples:

→ Despite the restaurant being near the busy intersection, its serene ambience creates an oasis of calm for diners seeking refuge from the urban hustle and bustle.
→ The art gallery, strategically positioned next to the historic museum, forms a cultural enclave that seamlessly blends contemporary expression with the rich tapestry of the past.

10. Until, Till and Unless

→ "Until" is a preposition that indicates a point in time up to which an action or state continues. It is often used to express the duration or the end of a specific period.
→ "Till" is a more informal variant of "until" and has the same meaning. It is widely accepted in casual language but might be considered less formal in written or academic contexts.
→ “Unless” is used to express a negative condition or exception.

Examples:

→ She studied diligently until the late hours of the night, ensuring she grasped every concept before the exam.
→ The students remained in the library till the librarian announced closing time, immersed in their research projects.
→ Unless you finish your homework, you won't be allowed to go to the party.

List of Some Common Prepositions