English prepositions can be tricky, especially for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners. Understanding the differences between similar prepositions is crucial for clear and accurate communication. In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between “on, over, above” and provide examples to help you grasp their usage.

On, Over, Above: What’s the Difference?

Let’s analyze each of these words and see example sentences to understand them better!

1. On

The preposition “on” is used to indicate position or location on a surface.

Examples:

1. She put the book on the table.
2. The cat is sitting on the chair.
3. There’s a stain on your shirt.
4. The keys are on the kitchen counter.
5. The painting is hanging on the wall.
6. He wrote a note on a piece of paper.
7. Please write your name on the top of the page.
8. The coffee cup is on the saucer.
9. The pencil is on the desk.
10. The picture is on the cover of the magazine.

2. Over

“Over” typically suggests movement from one side to another, covering or spanning something.

Examples:

1. The bird flew over the house.
2. She placed a blanket over the sleeping child.
3. The airplane is flying over the clouds.
4. He threw the ball over the fence.
5. The bridge goes over the river.
6. She put a sheet over the mattress.
7. The helicopter flew over the city.
8. The clouds are over the mountains.
9. He hung a painting over the fireplace.
10. The banner is over the entrance.

3. Above

“Above” refers to a higher position than something else.

Examples:

1. The sun is above the clouds.
2. Hang the picture above the sofa.
3. There’s a plane flying above the ocean.
4. The moon is above the horizon.
5. There’s a lamp above the table.
6. The stars are above us.
7. The painting is above the fireplace.
8. The roof is above the attic.
9. The temperature is above freezing.
10. The plane is flying above the mountains.

Differences

Let’s break down the differences between “on,” “over,” and “above”:

1. Position/Location:

• On: Refers to being in contact with a surface.
• Over: Refers to being directly above and in a higher position.
• Above: Refers to being at a higher level or position.

2. Movement:

• On: Doesn’t indicate movement. It indicates position or location.
• Over: Indicates movement from one side to another, covering or spanning something.
• Above: Doesn’t usually indicate movement. It refers to a higher position.

3. Relative Position:

• On: Something is physically in contact with something else.
• Over: Something is directly covering or spanning another thing.
• Above: Something is at a higher level than something else.

4. Examples:

• On: The book is on the table.
• Over: A bird flew over the house.
• Above: The sun is above the clouds.

Summary

Understanding the differences between “on,” “over,” and “above” is important for clear and effective communication. Here’s a quick recap:

• On indicates being in contact with a surface.
• Over suggests movement from one side to another, covering or spanning something.
• Above refers to a higher position than something else.

With these examples and explanations, you can confidently use these prepositions in your writing and conversations. Practice using them in various contexts to improve your English fluency.