Question

There is a new star __________ the horizon.

• A. in
• B. on
• C. at
• D. under

Answer 1

Answer:

B. on

Understanding Prepositions: 'On the Horizon'

• The phrase 'on the horizon' is an idiomatic expression in English, meaning something is just appearing or about to happen.

• The preposition 'on' is used here to indicate a position or state of being at or upon a surface or line, which the horizon essentially represents from the viewer's perspective.

• When referring to celestial bodies (like stars, sun, moon) appearing or disappearing along the line where the sky meets the earth, 'on the horizon' is the standard and grammatically correct prepositional phrase.

Common Prepositions Related to Vision and Position:

• On: Used for surfaces, lines, or specific days/dates (e.g., on the table, on Monday, on the line, on the horizon).

• At: Used for specific points or locations (e.g., at the door, at the corner, at sunrise). It can be used for general location when talking about events (e.g., at the show).

• In: Used for enclosed spaces, large areas, or periods of time (e.g., in the box, in India, in the morning).

• Above: Indicates a higher position than something else, often without direct contact (e.g., the plane flew above the clouds).

• Below: Indicates a lower position than something else (e.g., the sun sank below the horizon).

• In competitive exams, questions on prepositions often test idiomatic expressions and fixed phrases. 'On the horizon' is a frequently tested idiom.

• Example usage: 'A new opportunity is on the horizon.' or 'The sun appeared on the horizon