In the bottom vs. On the bottom

[Haihao]

Hi,

I am really going to ask you a silly question I am not clear about now. Please help me out.

Is there any difference between 'in the bottom' and 'on the bottom'? e.g. in such a context as:

[Mister Micawber]

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Yes, here 'in' is expected, as the basal area or diameter of the container is relatively small relative to its height. For broad expanses, like the Pacific Ocean, 'on the bottom' is appropriate. In your context, if the host were drinking from a shallow bowl, he would more probably use 'on'. (And of course from a distance, the item is 'at the bottom', since it appears more as a point source.)

It is the same at / in / on relationship that we observe elsewhere. Of course, there are often instances when any will do.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Haihao]

I have learned much again, Mr. Micawber. Prepositions are always one of my confusions. From your explanation, I have got a feeling that I should be always focused on the actual situation I am put in to apply the preposition to in stead of mechanically running after prepositional phrases.

Thank you again!

Haihao

[Mister Micawber]

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Yes, I don't think that prepositions collocate particularly highly with their head nouns in prepositional phrases, Haihao. On the other hand, prepositions/adverbs/particles in phrasal verbs do collocate very highly-- so it's important to check where the preposition associates in a given sentence.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's

[Haihao]

Oh, it is really penetrating and helpful to distinguish prepositional phrases and phrasal verbs this way! This is like a synergistic effect for the best understanding of both. Thanks again, Mr. Micawber!

Haihao