[Grammar] where you can put things on

[Will17]

Hello,

Is "on" necessary at the end of this sentence, please?

"A shelf is a horizontal board where you can put things on".

Thanks a lot for your help.

Will

 

[billmcd]

No.

 

[bhaisahab]

I'd go further and say that "on" is wrong there. You could say "to put things on" or, less likely in modern English "on which to put things".

 

[CalvinLai]

Hello Will17,

In your case, 'on' is used to refer to a flat surface.

A tabletop is a horizontal board to put things on.
A coffee table is a horizontal board to put things on.
A shelf is a horizontal board to put things on.

A jewelry case is a box to put things IN.


Personally, I would not say you are wrong but whether it is necessary depends on how specific and descriptive you want your definition to be.

A shelf is a board.
A shelf is a horizontal board.
A shelf is a horizontal board you can put things on.
A shelf is a horizontal board you can put books, toys and food on.

Hope that's clear

Calvin

 

[billmcd]

Hello,

Is "on" necessary at the end of this sentence, please?

"A shelf is a horizontal board where you can put things. [STRIKE] on". [/STRIKE]

Thanks a lot for your help.

Will

b.