Prepositions of State and Influence

used to show a particular place or position

I saw him at the grocery store.

used to show that something exists or happens inside a space or area

They live in a big house.

not far from a place

The near bus stop is convenient for commuting to work.

in or to a position lower than and directly beneath something

She found her keys under a pile of papers on her desk.

very close to doing or experiencing something, especially something significant or critical

The negotiations between the two countries were on the brink of collapse before a last-minute agreement was reached.

very close to a particular state, situation, or event, often with the implication that it is about to happen or reach a certain point

She was on the verge of laughter as she watched the comedy show, unable to contain her amusement.

at the starting point of a major development or change

She was on the cusp of starting a new chapter in her life as she graduated from college and prepared for her first job.

in contact with and upheld by a surface

If you are cold the blanket is on the bed.

so as to be removed, taken away, or separated

He pulled his gloves off before shaking hands.

at a position above or higher than something

Smoke hung over the burning building.