Preposition for 'something ? the Ceiling'.

   Share on Facebook  
iris_es  #572731  Fri, 03 Oct 08 10:40 AM
1. An insect at the ceiling
1. An insect on the ceiling
1. An insect in the ceiling

which onre is correct?

Thank you.
  
Not Ranked
Joined on Wed, Jun 25 2008
New Member (25)
Peaceblinkfriend  #572733  Fri, 03 Oct 08 10:49 AM
Hi iris_es

First off, you need the link verb 'is' after 'an insect'. 

An insect is on the ceiling. - If you look up, you can see an insect crawling on the ceiling. It's back is probably facing you.

An insect is in the ceiling. -  I am not sure if we would say this, but if we do it would mean that an insect is inside the ceiling. It could be between the ceiling and the roof. 

Hope it hoped.


PBF
  
Top 50 Contributor
Joined on Wed, May 9 2007
Australia
Contributing Member (1,741)
CalifJim  #572903  Fri, 03 Oct 08 09:51 PM
iris_es
which onre Which one is correct?
The middle one.

There is

an insect on the ceiling

a fly on the ceiling

a strange mark on the ceiling

writing on the ceiling

But:

There is

a crack in the ceiling

a dent in the ceiling 

a gouge in the ceiling

a nail in the ceiling

______

It depends on whether there is any penetration below the surface.

CJ 

  
Top 10 Contributor
Joined on Mon, Aug 2 2004
California
Veteran Member (17,790)
ModeratorProficient Speaker
"There are no facts, only interpretations" - Nietzsche
AddThis Feed Button RSS Feed: ESL General English Grammar Questions
© 2008 MediaCET Ltd.
Terms and Conditions & Terms of Service