How To Use The Preposition Of Time Part I

Let’s review the definition of a preposition.  A preposition is a word used to link nouns, pronouns, or phrases to other words within a sentence. Prepositions are usually short words, and they are often placed directly in front of nouns. In some cases, you'll find prepositions in front of gerund verbs. Now let’s dissect it further.  Let’s start with a noun; a noun is a person, place or thing.  A pronoun is a short word that can stand by itself as a noun, for example, she, it or I, you.  What is a gerund verb? A gerund is a noun made from a verb by adding "-ing." The gerund form of the verb "read" is "reading." You can use a gerund as the subject, the complement, or the object of a sentence.

Take the time to understand the lesson; you will soon use the prepositions with ease and perfection.

There are different types of prepositions.  Preposition of Time, Place, Direction, Device or Machines.  Let’s take a look at the preposition of Time closer.  The purpose of the preposition is the determination of the relationship in time or place. Keep in mind that a lot of prepositions fall in more than one area.

Today we will go over the most common time prepositions used, in a later post I will continue with the rest.  For now, let’s learn, study and practice the ones below.  

Preposition of Time - on, in, at, since, ago and by

On- used for days of the week and dates.  For example, on Sunday; on May 1st; on Christmas Eve; on your mark; on the weekend.  

In- Used for months, seasons, year; also for part of the day; after a period of time.  For example, in summer; in July; in 2017; in the evening; in an hour; in the future.  

At- Used as a particular point of time; exceptions (question: “When…?) for example, at 11:15 P.M.; at half past six; at noon; at night; learned English at 38; at first glance.  

Since- Used from a specific point in time until now (past till now).  For example, since 1980; since yesterday.  

Ago- Used from now to a specific point in the past (now till past).  For example, a second ago; a decade ago; a while ago.  

By- Used as not later than.  For example, by 12 o’clock; by next week.

Examples:  

The flowers always bloom in the Spring.

I haven’t seen my brother since yesterday.

I will pick you up at 11:11 am.

I will call you on Friday.

A second ago the crowd rushed into the auditorium.

I will have the letter completed by next week.

In summary, take the time to learn these and stay tuned for more in the coming weeks.  Have a fantastic day.

Until Next Week,

Coach Barb

TEFL Certified

Are you struggling with Prepositions?

Get your free study guide

Thank you!