Prepositions and Conjunctions in English: Rules, Types, and Examples

Introduction

Prepositions and conjunctions are important parts of English grammar. Prepositions show the relationship between a noun or pronoun and another word in a sentence. Conjunctions join words, phrases, or clauses. Learning how to use them correctly helps students write clear and meaningful sentences.


Prepositions

What Is a Preposition?

A preposition is a word placed before a noun or pronoun to show its relationship with another word in the sentence.

Examples

  • The book is on the table.
  • She sat under the tree.

Prepositions of Time

Prepositions of time tell us when something happens.

Common Prepositions

at, on, in, before, after, during

Examples

  • School starts at 8 a.m.
  • I was born in July.
  • We have a test on Monday.
  • He left after lunch.

Prepositions of Place

Prepositions of place tell us where something is.

Common Prepositions

in, on, under, above, behind, between, near

Examples

  • The cat is under the chair.
  • The school is near my house.
  • The picture is on the wall.

Prepositions of Direction

Prepositions of direction show movement from one place to another.

Common Prepositions

to, into, onto, towards, across, through

Examples

  • She went to the market.
  • The ball rolled into the room.
  • He walked across the road.

Prepositions of Instrument

Prepositions of instrument show the tool or means used to do something.

Common Prepositions

with, by, using

Examples

  • She wrote the letter with a pen.
  • The picture was drawn by hand.
  • He opened the door using a key.

Conjunctions

What Is a Conjunction?

A conjunction is a word that joins words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence.

Example

  • I like tea and coffee.

Types of Conjunctions

1. Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions join words or clauses of equal importance.

Common Coordinating Conjunctions

and, but, or, so, yet, for, nor

Examples

  • I wanted to play, but it was raining.
  • She studied hard, so she passed the exam.
  • He is poor yet honest.

2. Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions join a main clause with a subordinate clause.

Common Subordinating Conjunctions

because, although, if, when, while, since, before, after

Examples

  • I stayed at home because I was sick.
  • She will call me when she arrives.
  • Although he was tired, he completed his work.

3. Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions work in pairs.

Common Correlative Conjunctions

both…and, either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also

Examples

  • Both Ram and Shyam are present.
  • You can either stay here or come with us.
  • She is not only smart but also hardworking.

Why Are Prepositions and Conjunctions Important?

  • Help form correct sentences
  • Improve writing and speaking skills
  • Make ideas clear and connected
  • Important for exams and daily communication