When do we use “in” for places?
We use in when someone or something is inside an enclosed space. Think of it as being within boundaries, like a room, a building, or a small vehicle where you sit inside.
- Use in for cars and taxis: in the car, in a taxi.
- Use in for buildings and rooms: in a restaurant, in a cafe, in a hotel.
- Also use in for in bed.
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When do we use “on” for places?
We use on for public transport where you can stand and walk around. We also use on for surfaces, but for A1, let’s focus on transport and holidays.
- Use on for public transport: on a bus, on a train, on a plane.
- Use on when talking about holidays: on holiday.
When do we use “at” for places?
We use at for specific points or general locations. It often means ‘near’ or ‘at the position of’ a place, not necessarily inside it. We also use at for events.
- Use at for specific public places: at the station, at the cinema, at the airport, at the bus stop.
- Use at for common locations: at home, at work, at school.
- Use at for events: at a party.
| Préposition | Main Use | Exemples |
|---|---|---|
| In | Enclosed spaces (inside) | in the car, in a hotel, in bed, in a restaurant |
| On | Public transport, holidays | on a bus, on a train, on holiday |
| At | Specific points, general locations, events | at home, at the airport, at a party, at work |
Exemples
- I am in the car.
- She is in a taxi now.
- We are in a restaurant for dinner.
- He is in a cafe with friends.
- They are in a hotel for the night.
- My cat is in bed.
- Are you on a bus?
- He is on a train to London.
- They are on a plane to Spain.
- We are on holiday next week.
- The train is at the station.
- Let’s meet at the cinema.
- My flight is at the airport.
- I am waiting at the bus stop.
- She is at a party tonight.
- I am at home.
- My dad is at work.
- The children are at school.
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Confusing “en” with English prepositions
Many Spanish speakers use in for all situations because “en” is used for many prepositions of place in Spanish. Remember that English is more specific.
- Incorrect : I am in home. Correct : I am at home.
- Incorrect : She is in the bus. Correct : She is on the bus.
- Incorrect : They are in the airport. Correct : They are at the airport.
Always try to learn the preposition with the place, like a fixed phrase. This makes it easier to remember.
Questions fréquemment posées
What is the main difference between in, on, and at for places?
In is for enclosed spaces (inside something). On is for public transport where you can move, or for surfaces. At is for specific points, general locations, or events.
Why do we say “in the car” but “on the bus”?
We say in the car because you sit *inside* a car and cannot usually stand up or walk around. We say on the bus (or on a train, on a plane) because you can stand and move around *on* these larger forms of public transport.
Is “at home” always correct?
Yes, at home is a very common and correct fixed phrase in English. It means you are at your house or apartment.
Can I use “in” for a country or city?
Yes, for larger geographical areas like countries, cities, or towns, we use in. For example, I live in Spain ou She is in Madrid.
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