prepositions - "on a project" vs "in a project"


Which is the correct form?



I'd like to try CoolStuff 2.0 on a project



or



I'd like to try CoolStuff 2.0 in a project




Answer



I think that it's a difference of emphasis - albeit subtle. When you use something on a project, the thing that you're using isn't really part of the project. It's used to help effect the project. On the other hand, if you use something in a project, it's integral to the project - part of the project itself. For example, a tool would be used on a project whereas a building material would be used in a project.


So, I think that it's a matter of what you're trying to indicate exactly. It's a subtle difference though.


And to try in this case would effectively be the same as to use as far as usage goes. So, if CoolStuff 2.0 is a tool, then you'd say "I'd like to try CoolStuff 2.0 on a project." Whereas if CoolStuff 2.0 is something that actually makes up the project, then you'd say "I'd like to try CoolStuff 2.0 in a project."


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