Preposition trap — on time·in·arrive at
Preposition traps that Koreans often confuse like on time, in time, and the subtle difference of arrive at.
→ / ←
Don't worry, I arrived on time.
on time = exactly at the scheduled time. It's different from in time, which means 'with a buffer' for not being late.
We arrived just in time.
in time = not late (before a deadline or departure). Unlike on time (exactly), it has a 'safe' nuance.
I will arrive in five minutes.
in + time = 'after ~ from now' (future duration). 'in five minutes' is more natural than 'after five minutes'.
I'm currently on the bus.
For large things like buses, trains, and airplanes where you can stand and move around, use 'on'. In contrast, use 'in' for cars and taxis.
She is waiting in the car.
Car·taxi is in the car / in a taxi. Don't confuse it with bus(on). When getting in, it's get in the car ↔ get on the bus.
We arrived at the airport at 6 o'clock.
arrive at + building/location (airport/station), arrive in + city/country (Seoul/Korea). Don't use to after arrive.
I'm a bit busy right now.
at the moment = right now (this moment). It's slightly more formal than now and has the nuance of 'for now'.
- 1
The 'exactness' of time is on time, 'not late safe' is in time.
- 2
'From now on ~ after' is in + time.
- 3
Large transportation means are on (the bus/train/plane), cars are in (the car).
- 4
After arrive, use at (location)/in (city), to is prohibited.
- on time — On time (exactly on time)
- in time — In time (before the deadline)
- arrive at / in — Arrive at (to is prohibited)
- at the moment — Right now