"On the bed" vs "In the bed"

Question

"On the bed" vs "In the bed"

Both 'in the bed' and 'on the bed' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'In the bed' is used when someone is physically inside the bed, such as lying down under the covers. 'On the bed' is used when something is physically on top of the bed, like a book or a pillow.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

Use 'on the bed' when describing something that is physically on top of the bed, like a book, a pillow, or any object placed on the bed.

Examples:

There are clothes scattered on the bed.
I left my keys on the bed.
She placed the flowers on the bed.
The cat is sitting on the bed.
He threw his bag on the bed.

Alternatives:

on top of the bed
on the mattress
on the covers
on the sheets
resting on the bed

Use 'in the bed' when describing someone or something that is physically inside the bed, like a person lying down under the covers.

Examples:

I found my cat sleeping in the bed.
She was reading a book in the bed.
The baby is crying in the bed.
He likes to eat his snacks in the bed.
I left my phone charging in the bed.

Alternatives:

in bed
on the mattress
under the covers
between the sheets
lying in bed

Answer 1

On the bed

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to something being physically on top of the bed, like a book, a pillow, or any object placed on the bed.

Answer 2

In the bed

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to someone being physically inside the bed, such as lying down under the covers.

"On the bed" vs "In the bed"

On the bed

In the bed

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