posted by rfvv yesterday at 9:45pm.
1. There weren't any seats in the KTX.
2. There weren't any seats on the KTX.
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Do we have to use 'in' or 'on' in this sentence? [The KTX is a train which goes faster.]
3. He was reading a book in a train.
4. He was reading a book on a train.
[Are both okay? Which preposition is commonly usd?]
I'd use "on" in both instances. (sentences 2 and 4)
To determine whether to use "in" or "on" in these sentences, you should consider the context and the specific usage of the words.
1. There weren't any seats in/on the KTX.
Both prepositions, "in" and "on," can be used in this sentence depending on the intended meaning. However, the more appropriate preposition in this case would be "on" because you are referring to the surface or exterior of the train where the seats are located. Using "in" would imply that the seats are inside the train, which is not likely the intended meaning here.
2. He was reading a book in/on a train.
In this sentence, both prepositions "in" and "on" can also be used, but they convey slightly different meanings.
Using "in" implies that the person was inside the train while reading the book, possibly sitting in a seat or standing. It emphasizes the location where the activity took place.
Using "on" implies that the person was on the train while reading the book. It suggests that the person was physically on the train, but does not necessarily specify the exact location within the train.
Therefore, both options are grammatically correct, but the choice between "in" and "on" depends on the specific intended meaning you want to convey.