rafaelpedrop  +  614021 Thu, 18 Dec 08 11:28 AM Hi! I'd like to know what's the difference between the prepositions IN and ON referring to the word TREE. For example: The nest is in the tree. The apples are on the tree. What about the leaves, are they on or in a tree? Thank you very much! rafaelpedrop Joined on Thu, Dec 11 2008 Casca, RS, Brazil New Member 13 Difference Between, Prepositions, Plants

	Mister Micawber  +  614064 Thu, 18 Dec 08 12:23 PM . The leaves are on the tree, because they are affixed to the ends and surfaces of the twigs and branches (as are the apples).  The nest is in the tree because it is intentionally hidden by the bird within the tree's outer boundaries. It is sometimes difficult to decide which preposition to use, and no doubt some are idiomatic, but keep in mind that on means at the surface (in some way) of a 2-dimensional construct, while in means enclosed (in some way) by a 3-dimensional construct. . Mister Micawber Joined on Wed, Aug 4 2004 Yokohama Veteran Member 30,840 'The question is,' said Humpty Dumpty, 'which is to be master-- that's all.' Prepositions, Affix, Plants

	Mister Micawber  +  614471 Thu, 18 Dec 08 09:58 PM .  Yes, you could, if you were describing a tree to a Martian. . Mister Micawber

	Mister Micawber  +  614936 Fri, 19 Dec 08 09:44 AM . Yes, not so common.  You would have to explain what a tree is to a Martian in detail that is unnecessary for anyone who lives on Earth. . Mister Micawber Plants

	alda1119  +  615028 Fri, 19 Dec 08 12:01 PM I see...But how can I know the sentences that are common in use? I don't have any friends who are native speakers here in our country. Here,as long as we use the correct grammar, we think it's already okay eventhough sometimes we say illogical sentences like I did ask you. I guess that's the big problem here. I hope my grammar is correct. alda1119 Relationships, Sentences, Friendships, Friends

	Mister Micawber  +  615052 Fri, 19 Dec 08 12:35 PM . Your grammar's fine except like I did ask should read like I asked. . Mister Micawber