How to Conquer Prepositions like a Pro: A Simple Study Guide for English Learners at B1 and B2 Level

Are you an English language learner who finds prepositions to be difficult? Fear not, because in this study guide, we will unravel the mystery of prepositions and equip you with the tools to master them like a seasoned pro.

Understanding Prepositions

In English grammar, prepositions help us understand how words in a sentence relate to each other. These small but mighty words usually show direction, location, time, or the spatial relationships between elements in a sentence.

An example of a spatial relationship in a sentence would be:

"The cat is on the table."

Why Prepositions are a Puzzle for B1 and B2 English Learners

For English learners, prepositions can be very challenging because they are often abstract and don’t always translate directly from their native languages. The many uses of prepositions can make them hard to use correctly. However, with some help and practice, learning to use prepositions well is possible!

As an intermediate English learner, you might often find yourself torn between using 'in,' 'on,' or 'at' – each with its own set of rules and exceptions. It's easy to see why prepositions can feel like the toughest challenge in learning English!

Unlocking the Secret: Tips to Master Prepositions

1. Start with Basic Prepositions Begin by learning common prepositions such as 'in,' 'on,' 'at,' 'to,' and 'from.' Understanding the basic meanings and contexts where these prepositions are used can serve as a solid foundation for more complex usage.

2. Context is Key Pay attention to the context in which prepositions are used in sentences. Often, the surrounding words can provide clues on the appropriate preposition to use.

3. Phrasal Verbs and Prepositions Be aware of phrasal verbs, which are verbs followed by prepositions or adverbs. Understanding the relationship between the verb and preposition is crucial for using prepositions correctly.

4. Be More Mindful with your Practice

The best way to solidify your understanding of prepositions is through practice. Remember to incorporate writing into your weekly routine, and ask a tutor to focus on your prepositions during 1 on 1 conversations. When you practice reading pay extra attention to prepositions and how they are used to reinforce your learning.

Examples of Prepositions in Action

Let's delve into some examples to illustrate how prepositions function in sentences:

• 1. In

  • Use it for: Enclosed spaces, areas, or periods of time.

  • Examples:

    • Space: "The keys are in the drawer."

    • Time: "We’ll meet in July."

  2. On

  • Use it for: Surfaces, days, and specific dates.

  • Examples:

    • Space: "The cup is on the table."

    • Time: "Her birthday is on March 5th."

  3. At

  • Use it for: Specific points or locations and times.

  • Examples:

    • Space: "I am at the bus stop."

    • Time: "The meeting starts at 3 PM."

  4. To

  • Use it for: Direction or movement toward a place.

  • Examples:

    • "I am going to the gym."

    • "She gave the book to her brother."

  5. From

  • Use it for: The starting point of a movement or origin.

  • Examples:

    • "He traveled from Paris."

    • "I received a gift from my friend."

By observing these examples and practicing similar sentences, you can enhance your mastery of prepositions gradually.

Phrasal Verbs

Definition: Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and one or more particles (prepositions or adverbs) that create a new meaning. The meaning of the phrasal verb can be different from the original verb alone.

Examples of Phrasal Verbs:

1. Give up: To stop trying.

   • Example: "I decided to give up smoking."

     
     

2. Look after: To take care of someone or something.

   • Example: "She will look after the kids while I’m away."

     
     

3. Run into: To meet someone unexpectedly.

   • Example: "I ran into my old friend at the store."

     
     

4. Put off: To delay or postpone something.

   • Example: "We had to put off the meeting until next week."

     
     

Importance of Understanding Relationships:

The relationship between the verb and the preposition in phrasal verbs is crucial because it changes the meaning. For example:

• "Give" on its own means to hand something over, but "give up" means to stop trying.

  
  

Understanding these relationships helps you use both phrasal verbs and prepositions correctly in sentences, making your communication clearer.

Using Prepositions with Phrasal Verbs:

Sometimes, phrasal verbs are followed by additional prepositions to provide more context.

1. Look forward to: To be excited about something in the future.

   • Example: "I am looking forward to the concert."

     
     

2. Take care of: To be responsible for someone or something.

   • Example: "Can you take care of my dog while I’m away?"

     
     

By practicing phrasal verbs and their meanings, you’ll improve your understanding and use of prepositions in English!

Wrap Up

Mastering prepositions might seem like a Herculean task, but with dedication and strategic learning, you can navigate the preposition maze with finesse. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is fluency in prepositions.

Embrace the challenge, practice consistently, and soon you'll be using prepositions like a pro!

With this study guide in your arsenal, we are confident that you will soon conquer prepositions like a pro! Happy learning!