Which Preposition Is Correct: On an Errand or To an Errand?

When it comes to describing a short trip for running small tasks or duties, the phrase on an errand is most commonly used. For instance, saying, I went downtown on an errand. This structure is grammatically correct and is widely recognized and used by native English speakers.

Common Usage: On an Errand

Giving the sample sentence, I went downtown on an errand. This indicates that a short journey was taken to accomplish a minor, specific task. On an errand clearly identifies the purpose and nature of the trip without any ambiguity.

Alt. Usage: To Do an Errand

There is another way to express going on an errand that is equally common and correct: I went downtown to do an errand. This sentence slightly emphasizes the action of performing the task rather than the act of traveling, but the meaning is essentially the same.

Alternative: To an Errand

While less common, there are instances where you might see or hear to an errand. For example, the sentence Since the blinding snowstorm has subsided, my dangerous pizza delivery has been downgraded to an errand. Here, to an errand is used to denote a change in status or context, making the phrase more suitable in certain scenarios, such as when conveying the change from a risky task to a routine one.

Another example given is, My mother sent me downtown on an errand. This sentence follows the more typical usage, but it is not uncommon to see, My mother sent me downtown to do an errand. This emphasizes the recipient being dispatched to perform the task.

Personal Experience: The Use of Prepositions

Although both prepositions can be used, on an errand seems to be the more natural and common choice for everyday conversation. For instance, I’m going on an errand to help my mother. This structure feels more fluid and light.

Conclusion

While both prepositions can be used in the context of running errands, on an errand is the most common and straightforward choice. To an errand is less frequent but does appear in certain contexts, such as describing a change in status or emphasizing the task being performed.

Regardless of which preposition you choose, the key is in clarity and the context in which it is used. The correct preposition helps to ensure smooth communication and understanding.