Preposition

Definition

The noun "preposition" refers to (1) a word that governs a noun or pronoun and expresses a relationship of time, place, direction, manner, cause, or instrument to another element in the sentence; and (2) the part of speech comprising such relational words.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˌprɛpəˈzɪʃən/
• Respelling: prep-uh-ZISH-uhn

British English

• IPA: /ˌprɛpəˈzɪʃ(ə)n/
• Respelling: prep-uh-ZISH-uhn

Etymology

From Latin praeponere “to put before,” from prae- “before” + ponere “to place.” Entered English in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Prepositional (adjective)
• Prepositionally (adverb)
• Prepositional phrase (noun)
• Prepose (verb, rare)

Synonyms

• Relation word
• Linking word

Antonyms

• Postposition (in languages that employ them)

Usage

"Prepositions" are used to link nouns or pronouns to other words. Examples: "The book is on the table," "We’ll meet at noon," and "She wrote the note with a pen."

Related Terms

• Prepositional phrase: The preposition plus its object and modifiers.
• Object (of the preposition): The noun or pronoun governed by a preposition.
• Case (grammar): The form nouns take after certain prepositions in inflected languages.
• Conjunction: Connects clauses rather than establishing relationships of time or place.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Spatial relation: Governs a noun to indicate location or position.
  • Example: "The cat sat under the tree."
• Temporal relation: Indicates a point or period in time.
  • Example: "He arrives at 7 o’clock."
• Instrumental/causal relation: Shows means, cause, or manner.
  • Example: "She cut the paper with scissors."