Prepositions of movement
A2 ElementaryPrepositions of movement describe the direction or path of an object or person in motion. These words typically follow a verb of movement to show where someone or something is going.
Overview
Prepositions of movement show a change in position. Unlike prepositions of place, which describe a static location, these prepositions require a verb that indicates action or travel.
- Across: movement from one side of an area to the other.
- Along: movement in a line, following the side or length of something.
- Over: movement at a higher level than something, often crossing from one side to the other.
Sentence Structure
Subject + Verb of Movement + Preposition + Noun Phrase
These prepositions usually appear after a verb of motion and before a noun phrase that acts as the destination or path.
Across vs. Along
Use across when you cut through a space or cross a border. Use along when you stay next to a boundary or follow a long, thin path.
| Preposition | Direction | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Across | Crossing from side A to side B | They walked across the bridge. |
| Along | Following a path or line | They walked along the river. |
Examples in Context
Common mistakes
He walked through the bridge to the other side.
He walked across the bridge to the other side.
Use 'across' for flat surfaces or structures that connect two sides. 'Through' implies being inside a three-dimensional space like a tunnel.
The dog ran along the road to the other side.
The dog ran across the road to the other side.
If the destination is the opposite side, use 'across'. 'Along' means the dog stayed on the same side, following the road's length.
Practice
The hikers followed the path that goes ______ the river for three miles.
Show answer
along
Answer:along
Why:The hikers are following the length of the river, not crossing from one side to the other.
The athlete had to jump ______ the hurdle to finish the race.
Show answer
over
Answer:over
Why:Movement that goes above an object from one side to the other uses 'over'.
It is dangerous to swim ______ this wide river because the current is strong.
Show answer
across
Answer:across
Why:Swimming from one bank to the opposite bank represents movement 'across' a space.