In this lesson, we will explore prepositions of time, which are words used to show when something happens. These prepositions help us organize events and actions in relation to specific times or periods. Let’s dive into the key prepositions of time and how they are used!
What Are Prepositions of Time?
Prepositions of time are words that show us when something happens. They help us organize events and actions by specifying the time frame. Common prepositions of time include at, on, and in.
The Most Common Prepositions of Time
Let’s take a closer look at the three main prepositions of time: at, on, and in. Each one is used in specific contexts.
1. At
- Used for specific times (e.g., clock times).
- Also used for specific events or festivities.
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| I wake up at 7 a.m. | “At” is used for exact clock times. |
| We meet at noon. | “At” is used for midday (noon) or midnight. |
| She was born at Christmas. | “At” is used for festive occasions like Christmas or Easter. |
2. On
- Used for days and dates.
- Also used for specific days of the week or special days.
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| I have class on Monday. | “On” is used for days of the week. |
| The meeting is on July 15th. | “On” is used for specific dates. |
| We’re having dinner on New Year’s Eve. | “On” is used for special days like New Year’s Eve. |
3. In
- Used for longer periods of time such as months, years, centuries, and long periods.
- Also used for parts of the day.
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| It’s cold in winter. | “In” is used for seasons. |
| She was born in 1995. | “In” is used for years. |
| We’ll meet in the morning. | “In” is used for parts of the day (morning, afternoon, evening). |
Special Notes on Prepositions of Time
Here are some additional rules to keep in mind:
- No preposition is needed for “next,” “last,” “every,” “this,” or “that.”
- Example: I’ll see you next week.
- Example: We went to the park last Saturday.
- Use “by” to indicate a deadline.
- Example: You need to finish the project by Friday.
- Use “for” to talk about duration.
- Example: I’ve lived here for five years.
- Use “since” to refer to a specific point in the past.
- Example: I’ve known her since 2010.
Practice Game
Lesson Practice
Pages: 1 2