"in the car" vs "on the car"

Question

"in the car" vs "on the car"

The phrases 'on the car' and 'in the car' have different meanings and are used in different contexts. 'In the car' is the correct phrase to use when referring to being inside a vehicle. 'On the car' could be used when something is physically on top of the car, but it is less common.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

Use 'in the car' when describing being inside a vehicle, such as a car, truck, or van.

Examples:

I left my keys in the car.
She is waiting in the car.
There are snacks in the car.
The kids are playing in the car.
He sat in the car and waited.

Alternatives:

inside the car
within the car
within the vehicle
inside the vehicle
inside the automobile

Use 'on the car' when describing something that is physically located on top of the car, such as a roof rack or luggage.

Examples:

The luggage is on the car roof.
There is a bike on the car.
A cat is sitting on the car.
The sign is on the car's roof.
The keys were left on the car.

Alternatives:

on top of the car
above the car
atop the car
resting on the car
sitting on the car

Answer 1

in the car

This phrase is correct when referring to being inside a vehicle.

Answer 2

on the car

This phrase is correct when referring to something physically on top of the car.

"in the car" vs "on the car"

in the car

on the car

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