Prepositions in Spanish with English Examples


Introduction

Mastering Spanish prepositions is one of the trickiest parts of learning the language. Unlike English, where prepositions often follow predictable rules, Spanish prepositions can change meaning depending on context. Whether you’re a beginner or advancing toward fluency, understanding how to use them correctly will make your speech and writing sound much more natural.

What Are Prepositions?

Prepositions are small words that show the relationship between other words in a sentence—usually indicating location, direction, time, or cause. In Spanish, they function much like in English but sometimes have different rules or idiomatic uses.

Common Spanish Prepositions with Examples

1. a – to, at

  • Vamos a la playa. → We’re going to the beach.

  • Llego a las ocho. → I arrive at eight.

2. de – of, from, about

  • La casa de María. → María’s house / The house of María.

  • Soy de México. → I’m from Mexico.

3. en – in, on, at

  • El libro está en la mesa. → The book is on the table.

  • Vivo en Nueva York. → I live in New York.

4. con – with

  • Café con leche. → Coffee with milk.

  • Salgo con mis amigos. → I go out with my friends.

5. sin – without

  • No puedo vivir sin ti. → I can’t live without you.

6. por – by, through, because of

  • Caminamos por el parque. → We walk through the park.

  • Fue escrito por Cervantes. → It was written by Cervantes.

7. para – for, in order to

  • Este regalo es para ti. → This gift is for you.

  • Estudio para aprender. → I study in order to learn.

8. sobre – on, about, over

  • El vaso está sobre la mesa. → The glass is on the table.

  • Leí un libro sobre historia. → I read a book about history.

9. entre – between, among

  • Está entre dos edificios. → It’s between two buildings.

Tricky Points for English Speakers

  • por vs. para: Both often mean “for,” but por focuses on cause/movement, while para emphasizes purpose/destination.

  • en vs. a: Sometimes “in” or “at” requires en, but direction toward a place requires a.

  • Literal translations don’t always work—many prepositions are part of idiomatic expressions.

Tips to Master Spanish Prepositions

  • Learn prepositions through phrases, not isolated words.

  • Practice with real-life examples: songs, news, conversations.

  • Keep a list of verbs that require specific prepositions (e.g., “pensar en,” “soñar con”).

  • Use flashcards or apps to reinforce usage.

Conclusion

Prepositions may seem small, but they carry big importance in Spanish. By studying common examples and paying attention to context, you’ll avoid common mistakes and express yourself more naturally. Over time, using Spanish prepositions will become second nature.