Prepositions
7 exercise sets available
Grammar Explanation
Prepositions (preposiciones) are words that show the relationship between nouns, pronouns, or phrases and other words in a sentence. In Spanish, prepositions usually indicate location, direction, time, possession, or cause. Some of the most common Spanish prepositions include 'a' (to, at), 'de' (of, from), 'en' (in, on), 'por' (for, by), 'para' (for, in order to), 'con' (with), and 'sin' (without).
Prepositions are always followed by a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase, never by a verb in its infinitive form. The choice of preposition can change the meaning of a sentence, so it's important to learn which one to use in different contexts. Prepositions are frequently used in expressions of time (“a las cinco”—at five), place (“en la casa”—in the house), movement (“voy a Madrid”—I go to Madrid), cause (“por el tráfico”—because of the traffic), and possession (“la casa de Juan”—Juan’s house).
Examples
- •“El libro está en la mesa.”
- •“Voy a la escuela todos los días.”
- •“Este regalo es para ti.”
- •“Salimos con nuestros amigos anoche.”
- •“La carta es de mi abuela.”
- •“Estoy sin dinero hoy.”
- •“Caminamos por el parque.”
- •“El gato duerme bajo la cama.”
Tips
- 💡Remember that Spanish prepositions rarely have direct one-to-one translations with English prepositions—pay attention to context.
- 💡A common mistake is using 'por' and 'para' interchangeably; remember 'para' is usually for purpose/destination, and 'por' is for reason/travel/movement.
- 💡Try memorizing common phrase chunks with prepositions (like 'en casa', 'a menudo', 'de vez en cuando')—this helps you use them more naturally.
- 💡Prepositions always use the infinitive after them when followed by a verb: 'antes de comer' (before eating), not 'antes de como'.
- 💡Practice reading and listening for prepositions in context, then try creating your own sentences to reinforce the patterns and correct usage.
These exercises practice the use of simple prepositions of place and time in basic sentences.
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These exercises help practice the use of prepositions of place and time in simple, everyday sentences.
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Practice using prepositions of place and time in complex sentences. Exercises designed for B1 level, focused on work, studies, and experiences.
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Practice the correct and varied use of prepositions of place and time in complex and formal sentences.
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Practice sophisticated use of prepositions in academic and professional contexts, focusing on complex structures and advanced vocabulary.
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This exercise set explores the precise and nuanced use of Spanish prepositions in complex sentences and abstract topics.
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