Objects that pair with prepositions function differently from direct and indirect objects, which follow verbs.

Subj + verb + [prepositions + object]

These nouns and verbs reference a preposition and modify the action of the larger sentence. For example:

He sat [in the basement] [of the building], [among the boxes], reading a book [on his break].

the prepositional objects are “basement,” “building,” “boxes,” and “break.”

Like direct objects, prepositional objects receive the action of the subject in the sentences yet need a preposition for the sentence to make sense.

Subj + verb + [preposition + (prepositional object)]

I live [in the (forest)].
She sits [on the (ground)].
We’ll meet [at the (park)].
I play [with the (kids)].
The birds fly [into the (sky)].