In or At School

in at prepositions

Have you ever been confused about if you should use 'in school' or 'at school'? We will find out which is correct in this lesson.

"In" or "At School" in the English grammar

Which One Should Be Used?

Both 'at school' and 'in school' are correct and can be used, but a distinction requires your attention. 'At school' refers to the physical state of the subject while 'in school' refers to the social status of the subject.

In school

When we use 'in school,' we mean that the subject is a student and is studying. Here, we do not necessarily mean that there is a physical presence in the school building.

My daughter is still in school.

Here, the subject is still a student. They may or may not be physically in school at the moment of speaking.

I met my husband when I was in school.

Here, the subject has done an action in the past when they were still a student.

At school

'At school' is used to refer to the physical presence of the subject at the school grounds or building. The subject may or may not be a student. Have a look:

My daughter is still at school.

Here, the subject may or may not be a student who is present at the school building.

I met my husband when I was at school.

Here, the subject committed an action while they were present at the school building or grounds.

Comments

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