"on the train" vs "in the train"

Question

"on the train" vs "in the train"

Both 'in the train' and 'on the train' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. 'In the train' is used when referring to being physically inside the train, while 'on the train' is used when talking about being aboard the train or traveling by train.

Last Updated: March 11, 2024

Use 'on the train' when you want to indicate that you are aboard the train or traveling by train, such as 'I met my friend on the train.'

Examples:

She sat on the train for hours.
He always reads on the train.
I saw her on the train yesterday.
They played cards on the train.
We had a picnic on the train.

Alternatives:

aboard the train
traveling by train
riding the train
on board the train
on the railway carriage

Use 'in the train' when you want to indicate that you are physically inside the train, such as 'I left my bag in the train.'

Examples:

She fell asleep in the train.
There was a strange smell in the train.
I forgot my book in the train.
He left his umbrella in the train.
The children were playing in the train.

Alternatives:

inside the train
within the train
within the carriage
inside the carriage
inside the compartment

Answer 1

on the train

This phrase is correct when referring to being aboard the train or traveling by train.

Answer 2

in the train

This phrase is correct when referring to being physically inside the train.

"on the train" vs "in the train"

on the train

in the train

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