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We Sit In, On, or At the Corner? Qual preposição usar? 
07/21/10 

Here is a question from a LEP reader: "A preposição AT está correta na expressão 'to sit at the corner'?"

 

When we use "sit + corner" we don't use "at". We use "in" or "on", depending on the situation.

Observe the phrases below:
 
Every afternoon Sue sits on the corner of  Zen Street and Mantra Ave., and meditates for one hour!
 
==> When the corner we sit is outside, we sit on the corner.

(Dica para lembrar: On = Outside)

 
 
We were all sitting in the corner of the living room when they took that picture.
 
==> When the corner we sit is inside, we sit in the corner.

(Dica para lembrar: In  = I nside)

 
The bakery is at the corner - you don't need to drive!
 
==> Note that the bakery "is" (at the corner) - is not "sitting", just "is" - so we use AT. 

 
BUT:
 
I am on the corner waiting for you.
 
==> Você pode me perguntar: "Rose, why do we use on the corner here if we are saying 'I am' and not 'I am sitting'? Shouldn't it be I am at the corner, like the bakery that is at the corner?"

No! And this is why: "I am ON the corner waiting for you" because it's a temporary condition. 

"The bakery is AT the corner..." because it's a permanent condition.

 

Got it?

 

Dúvidas de gramática, cultura, expressões idiomáticas em inglês? 
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