25 - ] Grammar American & British
A preposition is a word or group of words used before
a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase to show direction, time, place, location,
spatial relationships, or to introduce an object. Some examples of prepositions
are words like "in," "at," "on," "of,"
and "to." Prepositions in English are highly idiomatic.
The definition of a preposition is a word or phrase
that connects a noun or pronoun to a verb or adjective in a sentence. An
example of preposition is the word "with" in the following; "I'm
going with her."
A preposition is a word or group of words used before
a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase to show direction, time, place, location,
spatial relationships, or to introduce an object. Some examples of prepositions
are words like "in," "at," "on," "of,"
and "to."
Prepositions in English are highly idiomatic.
Although there are some rules for usage, much preposition usage is dictated by
fixed expressions. In these cases, it is best to memorize the phrase instead of
the individual preposition.
Prepositions are words that show relationships. A
sentence would not make sense without the use of a preposition. There are
different types of prepositions used in the English language that not only add
detail but make a sentence complete. Prepositions are used to show location,
time, direction, cause and possession.
How many prepositions are in English?
There are about 150 prepositions in English. Yet this is a very
small number when you think of the thousands of other words (nouns, verbs etc.).
Prepositions are important words. We use individual prepositions more
frequently than other individual words.
What are the types of preposition?
The five types of prepositions are simple, double, compound,
participle, and phrase prepositions.
Types of Prepositions
Preposition of movement.
To refer to a direction, use the prepositions "to,"
"in," "into," "on," and "onto."
She drove to the store.
Don’t ring the doorbell. Come right in(to) the house.
Drive on(to) the grass and park the car there.
Ending a Sentence With a Preposition
At one time, schools taught students that a sentence should never
end with a preposition. This rule is associated with Latin grammar, and while
many aspects of Latin have made their way into English, there are times when
following this particular grammar rule creates unclear or awkward sentence
structures. Since the purpose of writing is to clearly communicate your ideas,
it is acceptable to end a sentence with a preposition if the alternative would
create confusion or is too overly formal.
Example: The car had not been paid for. (Ends with a preposition
but is acceptable)
Unclear Revision: Paid for the car had not been. (Unclear
sentence.)
Example: I would like to know where she comes from. (Ends with a
preposition but is acceptable)
Overly Grammatical Revision: I would like to know from where she
comes. (Grammatical but overly formal. Nobody actually speaks like this.)
However, in academic writing, you may decide that it is worth
revising your sentences to avoid ending with a preposition in order to maintain
a more formal scholarly voice.
Example: My research will focus on the community the students lived
in.
Revision: My research will focus on the community in which the
students lived.
Revision: I like the people with whom I am working.
Preposition of manner.
Preposition of agent of instrument.
Preposition of measure.
Preposition of source.
Preposition of possession.
8 Types of Prepositions With Examples
1- ]Simple Preposition. When a preposition consists of one
word is called single or simple preposition.
Simple Preposition Examples: in, at, on, to for, of, from, up,
after, over, under, with, till, etc.
Simple prepositions are words like at, for, in, off, on, over, and
under. These common prepositions can be used to describe a location, time or
place.
Some examples of common prepositions used in sentences are:
He sat on the chair.
There is some milk in the fridge.
She was hiding under the table.
The cat jumped off the counter.
He drove over the bridge.
She lost her ring at the beach.
The book belongs to Anthony.
They were sitting by the tree.
We are running in the gym today.
The sun is above the clouds.
She lives near her workplace.
She drew the picture with a crayon.
He swam at the lake.
I walked down the street.
We located the key for the lock.
The car went through the tunnel.
I got a package from a friend.
I have liked that song since 1999.
She put the flowers by the window.
The food was placed on the table.
2- ] Double Preposition. When a preposition consists of more
than one word, it is called double preposition.
Double Preposition Examples: into, within, upto etc.
Double prepositions are two simple prepositions used together,
often indicating direction. Some examples are into, upon, onto, out of, from
within.
Once upon a time, there was a beautiful princess.
The baby climbed onto the table.
It is up to us to find the answer.
The loud noise came from within the stadium.
She never leaves without her phone.
The bird sat atop the oak tree.
The caterpillar turned into a butterfly.
I was unable to get out of the appointment.
3. Compound Preposition consists of two
or more words.
Compound Preposition Examples: on behalf of, according to, in front
of, from across etc.
Compound prepositions (or complex prepositions) consist of two or
more words, usually a simple preposition and another word, to convey location.
Some examples are in addition to, on behalf of, and in the middle of.
She sat across from Marie.
I attended the meeting on behalf of my company.
We were in the middle of the storm.
He has gym class in addition to his regular classes today.
He picked up the penny from beneath the couch.
Aside from singing, she also plays the piano at the bar.
My car is parked in front of the mailbox.
The weather will be good this weekend according to Tom.
The Most Common Compound Prepositions
|
according to |
ahead of |
along with |
alongside of |
apart from |
|
around about |
as against |
as between |
as compared with |
as compared to |
|
as for |
at that point in time |
at this point in time |
at the point of |
at the time of |
|
because of |
by force of |
by means of |
by reason of |
by virtue of |
|
by way of |
due to |
during the course of |
except for |
for fear of |
|
for lack of |
for the purpose of |
for the reason that |
for the sake of |
from above |
|
from among |
from behind |
from beneath |
from between |
from the point of view of |
|
in accordance with |
in a manner similar to |
in care of |
in case of |
in close connection with |
|
in common with |
in comparison to |
in compliance with |
in connection with |
on account of |
|
on behalf of |
on the basis of |
on the part of |
on the point of |
on top of |
|
out of |
outside of |
owing to |
previous to |
prior to |
|
pursuant to |
regardless of |
relating to |
relative to |
short of |
|
similar to |
|
subsequent to |
under cover of |
what with |
|
with a view to |
with regard to |
with reference to |
with respect to |
with the intention of |
|
in consequence of |
in consideration of |
in contrast to |
in default of |
in deference to |
|
in exchange for |
in excess of |
in favor of |
in front of |
in lieu of |
|
in opposition to |
in order to |
in place of |
in preference to |
in receipt of |
|
in regard to |
in relation to |
in search of |
in spite of |
in terms of |
|
in the course of |
in the event of |
in the face of |
in the immediate vicinity of |
in the nature of |
|
independently of |
inside of |
instead of |
on account of |
on behalf of |
|
on the basis of |
on the part of |
on the point of |
on top of |
out of |
|
outside of |
owing to |
previous to |
prior to |
pursuant to |
|
regardless of |
relating to |
relative to |
short of |
similar to |
|
subsequent to |
under cover of |
what with |
with a view to |
with regard to |
|
with reference to |
with respect to |
with the intention of |
|
|
4- ]Participle Preposition consists of words that end in
“ing”.
Participle Examples: regarding, barring, concerning, considering,
etc.
Participle prepositions have endings such as -ed and -ing. Examples
are words such as considering, during, concerning, provided.
She is interested in anything concerning horses.
He works one job during the day and another at night.
The dog kept following him home.
All the neighbors were there including the new one.
The principal was asking questions regarding her behavior.
Considering his age, he did a great job.
He was frustrated at the situation.
The teacher said no talking during class.
Participle prepositions have endings such as -ed and -ing.
assuming, barring, considering, during, given, notwithstanding,
provided, regarding, and respected.
5. Disguised Prepositions
Disguised Preposition Examples: ‘by’ can be changed into ‘be’, ‘on’
into ‘a’, and ‘of’ can be changed into ‘o’ for example, 5 O’ clock.
6. Phrase Prepositions
Prepositional Phrases and Wordiness
Like with pronouns, too many prepositional phrases can create
wordiness in a sentence:
Example: The author chose the mixed-method design to explain that
the purpose of the study was to explore the leadership qualities of the
principals in the schools as a means to gauge teacher satisfaction in the first
year of teaching.
This type of sentence could be shortened and condensed to minimize
the prepositional phrases and bring clarity to the writer's intent:
Revision: The author chose the mixed-method design to explore the
principals' leadership qualities and their impact on first-year teachers'
satisfaction.
Unnecessary Prepositions
If the preposition is unnecessary, leave it out. This creates more
clear and concise writing.
Example: Where are the plates at?
Revision: Where are the plates?
Example: She jumped off of the balance beam.
Revision: She jumped off the balance beam.
Group of words used with the force of a single preposition is
called phrase preposition.
For example according to , by means of , owing to .
Phrase prepositions (or prepositional phrases) include a
preposition, an object, and the object's modifier. Examples include phrases
like on time, at home, before class, and on the floor.
Prepositional Phrase Example Sentences
Prepositional phrases contain a preposition followed by an article
followed by a noun.
I will get to the conference on time.
The baseball game was canceled after the heavy rain.
John found his homework under the bed.
The children loved the gifts from their grandparents.
He succeeded with a little help.
We met to discuss the project before class.
She left muddy footprints on the clean floor.
According to his wishes, his funeral will be private.
The baby cries during the day and sometimes at night.
All the children were in the classroom including the teacher.
The hamburger with cheese is yours.
Let’s spice up this sentence.
The hamburger with cheese is yours.
I danced on the stage.
Next, we add more details.
I danced on the concert stage.
The puppy ran through the grass.
Adjectives make the sentence more enticing to read.
The puppy ran through the lush green grass.
How do you Identify a Prepositional Phrase?
A prepositional phrase is a group of words that doesn’t contain a
verb or a subject. It functions as a unified part of speech. A prepositional
phrase normally has a simple preposition and a noun or a simple preposition and
a pronoun.
Think of prepositional phrases as making a hamburger. You must have
meat (or a protein) and bread. A simple preposition and the object of the
preposition are the basics of a prepositional phrase.
You can jazz up your hamburger by adding cheese, grilled onions,
mustard, tomatoes, etc. The same can be done for prepositional phrases. Add
adverbs and adjectives to make your sentence more enjoyable to read.
Here are some of the most common, or simple prepositions:
|
aboard |
about |
above |
across |
after |
against |
|
along |
alongside |
amid |
among |
around |
at |
|
before |
behind |
below |
beneath |
beside |
besides |
|
between |
beyond |
but |
by |
concerning |
|
|
considering |
despite |
down |
during |
except |
excepting |
|
for |
from |
in |
inside |
into |
like |
|
near |
of |
off |
on |
onto |
opposite |
|
out |
outside |
over |
past |
regarding |
|
|
round |
save |
since |
through |
throughout |
till |
|
to |
toward |
under |
underneath |
until |
unto |
|
up |
upon |
via |
with |
within |
without |
What are the prepositions of time?
A preposition of time is a preposition that allows you to discuss a
specific time period such as a date on the calendar, one of the days of the
week, or the actual time something takes place. Prepositions of time are the same
words as prepositions of place, however they are used in a different way.
Prepositions are used in many different ways in English - perhaps
that's why a lot of people have problems with them.
Prepositions of Time
To refer to one point in time, use the prepositions "in,"
"at," and "on."
Use "in" with parts of the day (not specific times),
months, years, and seasons.
He reads in the evening.
The weather is cold in December.
She was born in 1996.
We rake leaves in the fall.
Use "at" with the time of day. Also use "at"
with noon, night, and midnight.
I go to work at 8:00.
He eats lunch at noon.
She often goes for a walk at night.
They go to bed at midnight.
Use "on" with days.
I work on Saturdays.
He does laundry on Wednesdays.
To refer to extended time, use the prepositions "since,"
"for," "by," "during," "from…to,"
"from…until," "with," and "within."
I have lived in Minneapolis since 2005. (I moved there in 2005 and
still live there.)
He will be in Toronto for 3 weeks. (He will spend 3 weeks in
Toronto.)
She will finish her homework by 6:00. (She will finish her homework
sometime between now and 6:00.)
He works part time during the summer. (For the period of time
throughout the summer.)
I will collect data from January to June. (Starting in January and
ending in June.)
They are in school from August until May. (Starting in August and
ending in May.)
She will graduate within 2 years. (Not longer than 2 years.)
First, they are used with time words:
on Monday
in the 20th century
at night
at
times: at 8pm, at midnight, at 6:30
holiday periods: at Christmas, at Easter
at night
at the weekend
at lunchtime, at dinnertime, at breakfast time
on
days: on Monday, on my birthday, on Christmas Day
days + morning / afternoon / evening / night: on Tuesday morning
dates: on the 20th of June
in
years: in 1992, in 2006
months: in December, in June
decades: in the sixties, in the 1790s
centuries: in the 19th century
seasons: in winter, in summer
in the morning, in the afternoon, in the evening
no
prep
next week, year, month etc.
last night, year etc.
this morning, month etc.
every day, night, years etc.
today, tomorrow, yesterday
Prepositions of Place
To refer to a place, use the prepositions "in" (the point
itself), "at" (the general vicinity), "on" (the surface),
and "inside" (something contained).
They will meet in the lunchroom.
She was waiting at the corner.
He left his phone on the bed.
Place the pen inside the drawer.
To refer to an object higher than a point, use the prepositions
"over" and "above." To refer to an object lower than a
point, use the prepositions "below," "beneath,"
"under," and "underneath."
The bird flew over the house.
The plates were on the shelf above the cups.
Basements are dug below ground.
There is hard wood beneath the carpet.
The squirrel hid the nuts under a pile of leaves.
The cat is hiding underneath the box.
To refer to an object close
to a point, use the prepositions "by," "near," "next
to," "between," "among," and "opposite."
The gas station is by the grocery store.
The park is near her house.
Park your bike next to the garage.
There is a deer between the two trees.
There is a purple flower among the weeds.
The garage is opposite the house.
Prepositions of Location
To refer to a location, use the prepositions "in" (an
area or volume), "at" (a point), and "on" (a surface).
They live in the country. (an area)
She will find him at the library. (a point)
There is a lot of dirt on the window. (a surface)
Second, they are used to show where something or someone is:
The plate is on the table.
Julie is in the garden.
The picture is on the wall.
If something is contained inside a box or a wide flat area, we use
‘in’:
in the newspaper in a
house
in a cup in a
drawer
in a bottle in a bag
in bed in a car
in London in England
in a book in a pub
in a field in the sea
in my stomach in a river
If something is on a line or a horizontal or vertical surface, we
use ‘on’:
on the table on the wall
on the floor on the
window
on my face on a plate
on the page on the sofa
on a chair on a bag
on the river on a t-shirt
on the ceiling on a bottle
on a bike on his foot
If something is at a point, (it could be a building) we use ‘at’:
at the airport at the door
at the table at the bus
stop
at the cinema at the top
at the bottom at the pub
at the traffic lights at
the front
at the back at school
at university at the window
at the hospital at the piano
Here are some more common ones that don't really fit:
on TV
on the bus
on a train
on a plane
on the radio
at home
at work
Prepositions of Spatial Relationships
To refer to a spatial relationship, use the prepositions
"above," "across," "against," "ahead
of," "along," "among," "around,"
"behind," "below,"
"beneath," "beside," "between,"
"from," "in front of," "inside,"
"near," "off," "out of," "through,"
"toward," "under," and "within."
The post office is across the street from the grocery store.
We will stop at many attractions along the way.
The kids are hiding behind the tree.
His shirt is off.
Walk toward the garage and then turn left.
Place a check mark within the box.
Prepositions Following Verbs and Adjectives
Some verbs and adjectives are followed by a certain preposition.
Sometimes verbs and adjectives can be followed by different prepositions,
giving the phrase different meanings. To find which prepositions follow the
verb or an adjective, look up the verb or adjective in an online dictionary,
such as Merriam Webster, or use a corpus, such as The Corpus of Contemporary
American English. Memorizing these phrases instead of just the preposition
alone is the most helpful.
Third, they are used after some adjectives:
She is good at tennis.
Scotland is famous for whisky
I'm worried about my new job.
Here are some of the most common ones:
famous for
France is famous for its food.
proud of
He is very proud of his new car.
interested in
Julie is very interested in sport.
pleased with
John is very pleased with his new suit.
bad at
They are very bad at math.
good at
Einstein was very good at physics.
married to
My mother has been married to my father for 20 years.
excited about
I'm very excited about my holiday.
different from / to
Coffee is different from tea.
afraid of
I'm afraid of spiders.
Fourth, they are used after some verbs:
Some Common Verb + Preposition Combinations
About: worry, complain, read
He worries about the future.
She complained about the homework.
I read about the flooding in the city.
At: arrive (a building or event), smile, look
He arrived at the airport 2 hours early.
The children smiled at her.
She looked at him.
From: differ, suffer
The results differ from my original idea.
She suffers from dementia.
For: account, allow, search
Be sure to account for any discrepancies.
I returned the transcripts to the interviewees to allow for
revisions to be made.
They are searching for the missing dog.
In: occur, result, succeed
The same problem occurred in three out of four cases.
My recruitment strategies resulted in finding 10 participants.
She will succeed in completing her degree.
Of: approve, consist, smell
I approve of the idea.
The recipe consists of three basic ingredients.
The basement smells of mildew.
On: concentrate, depend, insist
He is concentrating on his work.
They depend on each other.
I must insist on following this rule.
To: belong, contribute, lead, refer
Bears belong to the family of mammals.
I hope to contribute to the previous research.
My results will lead to future research on the topic.
Please refer to my previous explanation.
With: (dis)agree, argue, deal
I (dis)agree with you.
She argued with him.
They will deal with the situation.
Although verb + preposition combinations appear similar to phrasal
verbs, the verb and the particle (in this case, the preposition) in these
combinations cannot be separated like phrasal verbs. See more about this on our
verb choice page.
I'm listening to music.
She is waiting for her friend.
He borrows money from his sister.
Here are some of the most common ones:
arrive at / in somewhere
We arrived at the airport.
We arrived in London.
belong to somebody
This book belongs to me.
borrow something from somebody
I borrowed a book from my classmate.
concentrate on something / doing something
I concentrated on studying at the weekend.
depend on something / somebody
It depends on the weather.
explain something to somebody
The teacher explained the exercise to the students.
listen to something / somebody
I listened to music.
pay somebody for something
I paid the waiter for the coffee.
wait for somebody / something
Wait for me!
worry about somebody / something
Don't worry about a thing!
Fifth, they are used after some nouns:
She has trouble with remembering new vocabulary.
Finally, they are used in certain phrases:
The bus arrived in the end.
She arrived just in time for the film.
Disguised
Prepositions
Disguised prepositions are those that are not used in the sentences
but are implied. Unique examples of disguised prepositions are the letters 'a'
and 'o'. Here, 'a' stands for the shortened form of the preposition 'on' and
'o' stands for the shortened form of the preposition.
Prepositions List With Verbs & Nouns & Adjectives
Here is an alphabetically organized list of common prepositions.
|
Abide by a promise |
Ability for in some work |
Abound in or with fish |
Absolved of a charge |
|
Absorbed in thoughts |
Abstain from wine |
Abundance of food |
Accede to a request |
|
Acceptable to a person |
Access to a person or a place |
Accomplice with a person in some crime |
Accountable to a person for a thing |
|
Accustomed to hearing abuses |
Acquaintance with a person or a thing |
Accuse of some misdeed |
Acquitted of a charge |
|
Adhere to a plan |
Adjacent to a place |
Admit to an excuse |
Adverse to his interests |
|
Affection for a person |
Affectionate to a person |
Affinity with something between two things |
Afraid of death |
|
Agree to a proposal |
Agree with a person |
Aim at a mark |
Alarmed at a bad news |
|
Alight from a carriage |
Allegiance to a person |
Alliance with a person or state |
Allot to a person |
|
Allusion to something |
Alternative to a plan |
Amazed at anything |
Ambition for something |
|
Amused at a joke |
Animosity against a person |
Angry at a thing with a person |
Answer to a person |
|
Answer for conduct |
Anxious for his safety about the results |
Apology for some fault to a person |
Appeal to a person for redress or help against |
|
Appetite for food |
Applicable to a case |
Apply to a person for a thing |
Appoint to a situation |
|
Apprise of a fact |
Appropriate to an occasion |
Approve of an action |
Aptitude for science etc. |
|
Arrive at a place in a country |
Ashamed of his ignorance |
Ask for a thing from a person |
Astonished at her behavior |
|
Astonishing to a person |
Assent to an opinion |
Associate with a person or thing |
Attack on a place |
|
Attain to a high place |
Attend to a speaker |
Attend on a person |
Attention to study |
|
Avail oneself of an offer |
Avenge oneself on a person |
Aversion to a person or thing |
Aware of his intentions |
|
Bark at a person or thing |
Beat against a rock |
Believe in one’s honesty |
Belong to a person |
|
Bestow a thing on a person |
Beware of pick-pockets |
Blessed with health |
Blind to his own fault |
|
Blush at one’s own fault |
Boast of one’s wealth |
Born of rich parents |
Break into a house |
|
Break with a person |
Burst into a rage |
Busy with his lessons |
Call on a person at a place |
|
Call for punishment |
Canvass for votes |
Capable of improvement |
Care for a person |
|
Careful of his money about his dress |
Charge man with a crime |
Cling to a person or thing |
Close to a person or thing |
|
Clothed in blue |
Commence with a thing |
Comment on a matter |
Common to sever persons or things |
|
Compete with a person |
Competent for certain work |
Complain against a person |
Complaint about a thing |
|
Comply with someone’s orders |
Composed of a material |
Conceal facts from anyone |
Concede to some demand |
|
Condole with a person |
Conducive to success |
Confer a thing on anyone |
Confidence in a person |
|
Confident of success |
Conform to rule with one’s views |
Congratulate a man on his success |
Connive at other men’s fault |
|
Consent to some proposal |
Conscious of her beauty |
Consist of material in facts or results |
Consult with a person on or about some matter |
|
Contempt for a person or thing |
Contend with or against a person |
Contend for or about a thing |
Contented with a little |
|
Contrary to rules |
Contrast to a person or thing |
Contribute to a fund |
Control over a person or thing |
|
Converse to a point |
Converse with a person about a thing |
Convince a person of a fact |
Cope with a person |
|
Correspond to something |
Count on a thing |
Cure a man of a disease |
Deaf to his advice |
|
Deal in clothes(trade) |
Deal with a person |
Deficient in energy |
Delight to see you |
|
Depend on a person or thing |
Deprive a person of a thing |
Desire for wealth |
Desirous of success |
|
Despair of success |
Detrimental to health |
Devoid of happiness |
Die of a disease |
|
Die from some cause as overwork |
Die by violence |
Differ with a person on a subject |
Disagree with a person or thing |
|
Disappointed with a person in a thing |
Disapprove of anything |
Disgrace to a person |
Dispense with a man’s services |
|
Displeased with a person |
Dispose of property |
Dispute with a person about anything |
Disqualified for a post |
|
Dissent from an opinion |
Dissuade from an action |
Distinguish one thing from another |
Distinguish between two things |
|
Dream of strange things |
Duty to a person |
Dwell on a subject |
Eat into iron |
|
Elicit from a person |
Eligible for employment |
Embark on board ship |
Embark in business |
|
Eminent for his poetry |
Employed in gardening |
Encroach on one’s authority |
Endow a person or thing with something |
|
Engaged to some person in some business |
Enmity with a person |
Entitled to some facility |
Entrust anyone with a thing |
|
Entrust a thing to anyone |
Envy at another’s success |
Envious of another’ success |
Equal to the occasion |
|
Escape from jail |
Excuse for a fault |
Exempt a person from a rule |
Exonerate a person from blame |
|
Experience in doing something |
Explain to a person |
Exult in a victory over a rival |
Faith in a person or a thing |
|
Faithful to a master |
Familiar to a person or thing with a language |
Famous for his learning |
Fatal to his health |
|
Feed on grass |
Feed a cow with grass |
Fit for a position fond of music |
Forbearance for some weakness |
|
Fraught with danger |
Gifted with abilities |
Glance at a person to a thing |
Grapple with difficulties |
|
Grieve at or for or about an event |
Grieve for a person |
Guard against a bad habit |
Guess at something |
|
Hanker after wealth |
Harmony with anything |
Hatred of or for a person of a thing |
Heal of a disease |
|
Heir to some property |
Hint at an intention |
Hope for something |
Hopeful of success |
|
Hostile to my efforts |
Ignorant of English |
Ill with fever |
Impart a thing to a person |
|
Impose on a person |
Incite a person to some action |
Inclined to laziness |
Incumbent on a person |
|
Indebted to a person for some kindness |
Indicative of his motives |
Indifference to a person or thing |
Indulge in gambling |
|
Infected with smallpox |
Infer one fact from another |
Infested with rats |
Inflict punishment on a man |
|
Influence over a person on a man’s action |
Informed of a fact |
Infringe on a man’s rights |
Innocent of a charge |
|
Inquire into a matter of a person about some matter |
Insist on something being done |
Instill a thing into the mind |
Interest in music with a person about some matter |
|
Interfere with a person in some matter |
Intimate with a person |
Introduce a man to someone into a place or sect |
Invite a man to dinner |
|
Involve a man in debt |
Irrelevant to a question |
Irrespective of color and creed |
Jeer at person |
|
Jealous of his reputation |
Jest at a person |
Jump at a person |
Jump to a conclusion into the river |
|
Lame of one leg |
Lament for the dead |
Laugh at a person or thing |
Lean against a wall |
|
Liable to an error of payment |
Limited to a certain area |
Live on a small income |
Long for or after some business |
|
Long at a person or thing |
Long into a matter |
Long for something lost |
Loyal to the government |
|
Lust after/for riches |
Mad with hunger |
Malice against a person |
Marry one person to another |
|
Meddle with other man’s affairs |
Merge into anything |
Moved to tears |
Moved with pity |
|
Moved at the sight |
Moved by request |
Negligent of duty |
Necessity for a thing |
|
Need for assistance |
Nomination of a person to a post |
Notorious for his misdeeds |
Obedience to a person or order |
|
Object to some proposal |
Obliged to a person |
Oblivious of the past |
Occupied with some work |
|
Operate on/upon a patient |
Opposed to facts |
Opposite to a place |
Overcome with sorrow |
|
Overwhelm with emotions |
Painful to one’s feelings |
Parallel to or with anything |
Part with a person or thing |
|
Persevere in an effort |
Persist in doing something |
Pertain to question |
Play at cards |
|
Play upon the guitar |
Play tricks with a person |
Plot against a man |
Plunge into a river |
|
Ponder on or over a subject |
Popular with students |
Pounce on a thing |
Prefer one thing to another |
|
Prejudice against a person |
Present anyone with a book |
Preside at or over a meeting |
Prevent from going |
|
Previous to some event |
Proficient in mathematics |
Prohibit from doing something |
Prone to laziness |
|
Protect from harm |
Protest against injustice |
Proud of his wealth |
Provide for one’s children |
|
Provide with something |
Purged of evil thoughts |
Qualification for office |
Quarrel with someone over or about something |
|
Quick at mathematics |
Recover from an illness |
Reduced to poverty |
Related to a person |
|
Refer to a subject |
Refrain from some action |
Regard for a man’s feeling |
Rejoice at the success of another in one’s own success |
|
Relieve of or from pain |
Rely on a person or thing |
Remedy for or against a snake bite |
Remind a person of a thing |
|
Repent for a sin |
Repentance for sin |
Result from a cause |
Result in a consequence |
|
Revenge me on someone for some injury |
Revolt against a government |
Reward a man with something for some service done |
Rob a person for something |
|
Rule over a country |
Run after new fashions |
Run at a cat |
Run into debt |
|
Sacred to a person |
Satiated with pleasure |
Satisfied with income |
Search for something lost |
|
Send for a doctor |
Shocked at your behavior |
Short of money |
Shudder at cruelty |
|
Sick of waiting |
Similar to a person or thing |
Slow at accounts |
Sorry for your sufferings |
|
Stand against an enemy |
Stand by a friend |
Stand to one’s opinion |
Stare at a person |
|
Startled at a sight |
Steeped in evils |
Stoop to greediness |
Strange to a person |
|
Struggle against difficulties |
Subject to authority |
Submit to authority |
Subordinate to a person |
|
Subscribe to a fund |
Succeed to a property |
Succeed in doing something |
Succumb to difficulties |
|
Sue for peace |
Sufficient for a purpose |
Suitable to the occasion |
Suitable for his income |
|
Supplement to a book |
Supply a thing to a person |
Supply a person with a thing |
Sure of success |
|
Surrender to the enemy |
Suspicious of his meaning |
Sympathize with a person in trouble |
Synonymous with another word |
|
Take after her mother |
Take a person for a thief |
Take to gambling |
Take upon oneself to do a thing |
|
Talk to or with a person |
Thankful for some favor |
Throw a stone at any one |
Tired of doing nothing |
|
Tired with his exertions |
Traitor to his country |
Tremble at a snake with fear |
True to his words |
|
Trust in a person |
Trust a man with money |
Vested in a person |
Vexed with a person |
|
Vexed at a thing |
Victorious over difficulties |
View with another person |
Vote for anything |
|
Vote against a thing |
Wait for a person or thing |
Wait on a person |
Warn a person of danger against a fault |
|
Want of money |
Weary of doing nothing |
Welcome to my house |
Wish for anything |
|
Witness of or to an event |
Wonder at something |
Worthy of praise |
Yearn for love |
|
Yield for pedestrians |
Zeal for a cause |
Zealous for improvement |
Zest for enjoyment |
Prepositions
Of Manner
Prepositions of Manner is all about how a certain thing happened or
is done. Sometimes even referred to as Prepositions of Method, these include
words like on, by, with, like, etc. Using the Prepositions of Manner is all
about how a certain thing happened or is done. Sometimes even referred to as
Prepositions of Method, these include words like on, by, with, like, etc.
The most commonly used Prepositions of Manner are “by” and “with”.
We make use of By whenever we talk about actions and it is usually followed by
the gerund (verb + -ing) or a noun, while we make use of With to talk about
objects or tools that are used to achieve something and it is often followed by
a noun. This will make more sense as you read further: prepositions 'for, from,
of, through, with. '
Prepositions of form- By, With. They have the same purpose in the
sentence but not the same meaning. Both of them show the form of the noun. They
show what was used to make something happen.
By is used as –By + noun OR By + -ing + noun
With is used as – with + noun
For example:
He will die by the sword. (the sword will be the manner of his
death)
He faces danger with courage. (he is courageous when faced with
danger)
She left the room in tears. (she was crying when she left the room)
Answering the question of how:
She lost 2 pounds by going vegan. (how did she lose 2 pounds? by
going vegan)
They went through the blizzard with courage. (how did they go
through the blizzard? with courage)
2. Preposition of method- As if, like, on, as. These show
the method with which something was done.
For example:
She spoke as if she was the head of the team. (in the manner of the
head)
He acted like there was no other option. (in a manner that there
was no other option)
They traveled on foot. (they walked)
I have worked as a teacher and counselor. (in the capacity of a
teacher and counselor)
Try answering the question of how from the following examples:
She went to South Bombay by cab.
Our mother sings like a cuckoo bird.
The skydivers were dropped by a plane.
He fell in the ditch while walking home.
The tourists arrived on the Havelock island on a ferry.
I reacted with anger to his mistake.
My sister speaks like an old wise woman.
Solved Question for You
Q: Fill in the blank with a suitable preposition.
She came to the party _______ auto.
[ by- for – with – of ]
Answer: The preposition ‘by’ is used to show how or in what way
something is done, especially to denote the transport that is used for
traveling. In the given context the person uses an auto to travel, therefore
‘by’ is the apt answer. Thus option A is correct.
Whereas ‘with’ in the given context would mean in the company of
someone. Since the auto is not a person and cannot accompany the person to the
party option C is incorrect. Similarly ‘for’ cannot be used in the sentence
because ‘for’ is used to denote why something is done or for whom.
The party is not conducted for the auto, therefore, option B is
incorrect. The preposition ‘of’ is used to express belonging, which is
inappropriate here because the party doesn’t belong to or originates from the
auto. Thus option D is incorrect.
Preposition
of Measure, Standard, Rate, Value:
To begin with, this preposition is used for the purpose as it seems
from the title: for a measure or state a standard or specify a rate or specify
a value. There are a few prepositions that are used before nouns, adjectives or
verbs to describe them in the context of a measurement. Let’s see a few
examples to really understand what we mean here:
My brother is taller than me by 5 inches. – In this sentence,
what’s being measured is the height. Height can be measured specifically and
the comparison is clearly mentioned in the sentence. Notice how the preposition
by is placed right before the measure of 5 inches.
Can you please sell your bicycle to me at 50 percent of selling
price. – What’s being measured here is the rate. A rate usually always takes
the preposition at. A percentage is a very precise number to describe a rate
that usually goes with the preposition, at.
So now that we think you have a good idea of Preposition of
Measure, Standard, Rate, Value, let’s have a look at a few prepositions and try
to break down their usages:
By – Most commonly used preposition for the purpose of measure, by
is usually used to describe a measure, standard or value, sometimes in
comparisons or just stating standard measurement. Let’s see a few examples:
Tina won the match against
Whitney by 2 points.
The area of this house is measured by the yard.
The leopard is heavier than the jaguar by 10 pounds.
At – Second most common
preposition of this kind. At is usually used in the context of very precise
measures. Let’s see a few examples:
She charges interest rate at 10 percent.
It came in running at 110km/hour.
Of – This preposition is
usually used when the topic is abstract or measurement can’t be in numbers. For
example, a thing like bravery cannot be measured in numbers, but it’s
measurement or value can still be described. Let’s see a few examples:
Can you give me a piece of you cake?
The soldiers were driven by the bravery of their spirits.
Preposition
of Agency or Instrumentality
Preposition of Agency or Instrumentality: As we covered before,
Prepositions are words that link either the noun, or the pronoun with another
word in the sentence so as to form a relationship between them. To define it: A
preposition is a word usually placed before a Noun(or a pronoun) to show it’s
relation to another element in the sentence. This element could be another
noun, adjective or verb.
These prepositions are usually placed to connect the doer and the
doing, basically the noun and the verb. Agent, as you know, is the connector.
It’s that which makes something happen. So that means Preposition of Agency or
Instrumentality are placed in a sentence to fulfil the purpose of showing an
agent. Let’s see which words do this and how:
By:
By is usually used to show a doing by a person. Let’s see a few
examples to get this fully:
This food store is constructed by my father. (A doing was done by a
person- Construction is the action and father is the noun, and by is the
preposition connecting them to show their relation.)
Harry Potter was written by J.K. Rowling.
The much acclaimed song “Something” was written by none other than
Sir George Harrison.
This sweater was knitted for me by my grandmother.
2. With:
Usually used to show a doing by a thing, with is another
Preposition of Agency or Instrumentality.
Let’s see a few examples:
We drove away the mosquitoes with the repellant spray. (A doing was
done with something- Drove away is the action and the repellant spray is the
noun that the preposition with is connecting. The purpose of the preposition
here as you can see is to show the agent of the action- Preposition of Agency
or Instrumentality.)
We flushed out the dirt from the terrace with water. (The verb or
the action here is flushed out and the noun is water. The act was done using
the noun, water and the word showing this agency is shown using the
preposition- with.)
Mother chopped onions with a knife.
Alternatively, usually places where “with the help of” phrase is
used can be replaced by with. We will see that the same words can be used in
most kinds of prepositions alike. The key difference lies in the purpose we use
the preposition for. You know which prepositions to use for agency or
instrumentality.
Preposition
of Cause, Reason, Purpose
So what is a Preposition of Cause or Reason or Purpose or Motive or
Destination or Target(all of these words snowballed into a broader term,
Cause)? These are the prepositions that in general show the reason of a happening
or being in a sentence. They generally answer the question of why. They basically show the cause of
something happening or the purpose of an action. As the name suggests, these
show the reason in a sentence.
For example:
A train is used for travelling to different places. ( Why is a
train used? The purpose of a train is to travel. The preposition for is the
preposition of cause in this sentence as it is showing the purpose of a train.)
Sami Kohli received a prize for his exceptional performance in the
field of cricket. (Why was Sami Kohli given prize? The award was given because
of his exceptional performance. The reason of the award is being indicated by
the preposition for.)
Let’s see some Prepositions of Cause:
To: Usually used to show the purpose of the noun. This preposition
joins a noun with a verb.
We use coal in hydraulic plants to make electricity.
She ran to deliver the mail before the bus left.
My baby sister always goes to our father to ask for sweets.
2. For: This is also used to show the purpose of the noun. This
preposition joins a noun with usually another noun or an adjective. If it joins
the noun with a verb, usually the verb is in it’s gerund form.
I need a fine profile for getting a job at the Wall street.
Thank you for bringing us a casserole while our mom is out of town.
My cat goes out in the garden for emptying her bowels.
3. Because of/ on account of : Joining a verb with the noun, this
preposition is pretty straight up. It shows the reason of the happening.
I need to stay home because of my naughty brother.
The moon shines because of the sun.
On account of the flight delay caused, the Prime minister will
reach the office later than expected.
4. Owing to: Shows a cause
Owing to the brilliant example set by Ellen, she received a Medal
of Freedom by the President .
Alternatively, you can use words like due to, by courtesy of, by
reason of, by virtue of, for the benefit of, in favor of, in honor of, in the
light of, on behalf of, thanks to, or towards. All these words are Prepositions
of Cause and can do the job well. You know, a lot of them can pretty much be
used substitutionally. Try using them in your essay writing to notch up the
quality of your writing. Hope this article helped you!
Preposition
of Inference, Motive, Source, or Origin
As easy as it sounds, Preposition of Inference, Motive, Source, or
Origin is about a preposition whose functionality is to basically show the
origin or source of something in a sentence. What is that something will be clearer
to you as you read further. A preposition, as you must have learned so far is a
word that connects a lot of elements in a sentence. These elements could be
noun, verb, adjective or even adverb.
Preposition of Inference, Motive, Source, or Origin:
From: Usually, this preposition joins two nouns in a sentence, or a
verb and a noun. Let’s see a few examples to understand this.
My father bought me a new play-station from Dubai.
She has to bring her tiffin from home.
Shehnaz is from Oman.
I got these sweets from London.
From this experiment, we can derive that plants need sunlight for
photosynthesis.
His dedication to crack JEE exam is rooting from his desire to
excel in life.
2. Of/Out of: Now this preposition joins two verbs usually. Let’s
see a few examples to understand this.
From what we know of our father, he is a reliable man.
Out of respect, the knight bowed down to the king.
Sometimes words like from within and out of can be used to show the same purpose of this
preposition. As long as you see the idea of inference, motive, source, or
origin being portrayed in a sentence, know that the kind of preposition used is
a Preposition of inference, motive, source, or origin.
What is also to be noted is, sometimes Preposition of cause,
purpose or reason is confused with Preposition of inference, motive, source, or
origin. We recommend you to go through the said chapter to clearly see the
difference between the two. Although they can be considered under the same
umbrella sometimes, origin and reason is not the same thing as you can imagine.
For example:
She ran to deliver the mail. (Preposition of cause: The verb is
ran, the joining verb is deliver, and the joining preposition is to. It answers
the question of why did she run? Preposition of reason always answer the
question to why?)
She has to bring her tiffin from home. (Preposition of source: The
two nouns are tiffin and home and the preposition joining them are from. It
answers the question of where did she bring her tiffin from? Preposition of
source answers the question of where?)
It must be clear to you that if you ask the question of why and
where to your sentence, you will straight away know which kind of preposition
it is. Voila!
Prepositions of inference, motive, source, or origin answer the
question of where!
There! With that we wrap up with our chapter of Preposition of
Inference, Motive, Source, or Origin. Hope you enjoyed learning with us. We
have more fun grammar chapters coming up for you.
Preposition
of Contrast and Concession
Preposition of Contrast and Concession: Well we have seen how a
preposition is a word that indicates a relation among the different elements in
a sentence. It can basically show a connection between the noun or adjective or
verb. Prepositions are of different kinds depending upon the purpose they
serve. They may be indicating a time, place, manner, or cause, etc.
Forget about Prepositions for a second and focus on the word
contrast. What does Contrast mean? Contrast is basically something strikingly
different than something. It could be animate or inanimate. Color black and
white contrast each other. Qualities of good and bad contrast each other. We
will see more of it in detail as we go further.
Concession are words like “though” or “although” that are used to
show a different idea than suggested by the main part. For example:
Although my best friend is very tall and athletic, she didn’t make
it in the basketball team.
Though she is an animal lover, she eats non-veg food.
Although my sister is very studious, she is not popular among
teachers.
You see how ideas mentioned in the above sentences are quiet
contrasting. In the first example, a tall and athletic person should make it to
the basketball team, she didn’t. In the second one, you’d expect the person who
loves animals to not eat them. In the third sentence, a studious one should be
popular among teachers but she isn’t. In the above sentence, he irony of the
sentence is shown by the preposition of contrast and concession, though and
although.
Preposition
of Contrast and Concession:
Though and Although
These words are commonly used alternatively. You must have seen
above how these words are used to show contrasting ideas.
Although my sister exercises daily, she has serious health
problems.
Though my sister exercises daily, she has serious health problems.
Huge though it is, an elephant is a very peaceful animal.
Small although an ant is, it is very hard working and persistent.
2. As and Though
Used after an adjective or adverb, the preposition as can be used
in the place of though. Let’s see how that works:
Studious though he is, he is not a popular student among the
teachers.
Studious as he is, he is not a popular student among the teachers.
Punctual though he is, he missed today’s train for his office.
Punctual as he is, he missed today’s train to his office.
3. In spite of and despite
These prepositions of contrast and concession can be alternatively
used.
In spite of being so huge, an elephant is a very calm animal.
Despite being so huge, an elephant is a very calm animal.
In spite of attracting an income tax raid last year, the minister
kept his scams going.
Despite being so rich, they are not very kind to people.
4. Nonetheless, nevertheless and however
Well, these are not exactly words that connect clauses. They
usually mark discourses between sentences. Let’s see that with an example:
This cat is quick at its feet; however, it can’t catch a mouse.
This cat is quick at its feet; nonetheless, it can’t catch a mouse.
I am usually not interested to attend weddings; nevertheless, I
will be at my best friend’s wedding.
I am usually not interested to attend weddings; however, I will be
at my best friend’s wedding.
I love to sleep all day long; nonetheless, I also like to play
football.
5. All the same and At the same time
Just like the above category of Preposition of contrast and
concession, these prepositions do not connect two clauses. They are used after
a semicolon to show the contrast of ideas in the two clauses. Let’s see an
example:
Elephants are huge; all the same, they are very calm creatures.
Elephants are huge; at the same time, they are very calm creatures.
Lions are the strongest; all the same, they keep the hunting for
their lionesses.
Lions are the strongest; at the same time, they keep the hunting for
their lionesses.
Great work! Now that you have an idea, how about we do a few fun
exercises:
Rewrite the following sentences using the preposition of contrast
and concession:
It was dark at night, but we decided to step out.
– Although_____________________________.
Although she is not very tall, she plays basketball remarkably
well,
– In spite of ____________________________.
In spite of being in an unprivileged school, Sheila topped the
university exams.
– Although_____________________________.
Even after losing her parents, Ali didn’t lose hope.
– Despite____________________________.
Despite being so talented, O.J Simpson didn’t do well in life.
-Although_____________________________.
Answer key to the above exercise:
Although it was dark at night, we decided to step out.
In spite of being short(you can change the word if the meaning
stays the same), she plays basketball remarkably well.
Although Sheila is in an unprivileged school, she topped the
university exams.
Despite losing his parents, Ali didn’t lose hope. (Notice how a
pronoun is used right after despite or in spite of)
Although O.J Simpson was very talented, he didn’t do well in life.
(Notice how “was” is used because of the original sentence being in past
tense.)
Prepositions
of Possession
Prepositions of Possession: Preposition is a word that connects
various elements of a sentence. To define it: A preposition is a word usually
put before a Noun (or a pronoun) to show it’s relation to another element in
the sentence. This element could be another noun, adjective or verb. In our
previous chapters, we read about the introduction and kinds of Prepositions.
Further, we went one step further and dissected each kind one by one, which
leads us to our chapter here – Prepositions of Possession.
The Possessive form is used in a sentence in context of things that
belong to a person or animal. We can also use it to show a connection between
things. Some of the most commonly used prepositions of Possession are of, with
and to. We will show you a few examples:
This is the house of Mormons.
He’s the boy with the olive sunglasses.
This book is a property of the Half Blood Prince.
The house on the mountain belongs to my grandmother.
She’s the one with the ponytail.
The preposition form words and their usage:
Of: This preposition of possession is usually used for cities,
countries, people, and possessive pronouns. Of is placed in a sentence to show
possession of a place like a city, country or people or possessive pronouns
like mine, yours, etc.
Usual form: Of + noun/possessive pronoun(mine, yours, his, hers)
The preposition of explains to whom the person or an object belongs
to. In this case )Let’s see a few examples:
Canberra is the capital of
Australia.
This is the house of my uncle.
He is a friend of ours.
Taj Mahal is the finest monument of India.
A friend of mine had a car
accident yesterday night.
With: With is used with objects/materials/animals, accents, and
physical characteristics. To fully understand this definition, read the
examples below and come back again to this definition to see what we mean:
Usual form: With + adjective/noun
Let’s see a few examples:
I saw a girl with a pink purse.
The boy with the dragon tattoo is sitting by the corner.
The cat with black spots on her tail is my pet.
To: A preposition that shows possession, this is usually used in
the expression “belong to“.
Usual form: To + object pronouns(it, him, her)
Let’s see a few examples:
This race course belongs to the Government.
This garden belongs to my old aunt Mercy.
Now, don’t stop here. Look around you and use these prepositions in
the form of possession right away. One quick tip is that notice how most of
these sentences are passive in voice. Go on then! Have fun with Grammar!
Exercises
Prepositions
of Time 1
Put in the correct preposition (choose in / on / at). If no
preposition is needed put in -.
1) There was a loud noise which woke us up-------------midnight.
2) Do you usually eat chocolate eggs ----------------Easter?
3) What are you doing -----------------the weekend?
4) Last week I worked until 9pm------------every night.
5) My father always reads the paper ---------------breakfast time.
6) She plays tennis--------------Fridays.
7) The trees here are really beautiful --------------------the
spring.
8) I'll see you ---------------------Tuesday afternoon then.
9) Shakespeare died----------------1616.
10) She studies ----------------every day.
11) John is going to buy the presents--------------today.
12) In my hometown, the shops open early ----------------the
morning.
13) She met her husband -----------------1998.
14) The party is -------------------next Saturday.
15) We are meeting -----------------Friday morning.
16) I often get sleepy-----------------the afternoon.
17) His daughter was born--------------------the 24th of August.
18) Mobile phones became popular---------------the nineties.
19) Luckily the weather was perfect -----------------her wedding
day.
Prepositions
of Time 2
Put in the correct preposition (choose in / on / at). If no
preposition is needed put in -.
1) Lucy is arriving ---------------February the 13th --------------eight
o'clock ------------the morning.
2) The weather is often terrible in London -------------January.
3) It's better to get taxi if you are out alone ---------------night.
4) She got married---------------September.
5) They usually go to the south of France ---------------the
summer.
6) Columbus sailed to the Americas ---------------the 16th century.
7) The Beatles were popular ---------------the 1960s.
8) I graduated from university -------------------2001.
9) His birthday is ---------------------June.
10) I usually go to my parents' house --------------Christmas. We
eat turkey together-------Christmas Day.
11) The train leaves------------tomorrow morning ----------------8:00
am.
12) I love going skiing --------------------January.
13) We met at the restaurant ----------------8pm.
14) The class is-----------9am-------------------Monday mornings.
15) I like to drink coffee ----------------the morning and tea
-------------the afternoon.
16) We went out for dinner----------------last Wednesday.
17) She left London ---------------the 4th of March.
18) I had a party -------------------my birthday.
19) Lucy went to New York --------------New Year.
20) We're meeting --------------------lunchtime ----------------next
Tuesday.
Prepositions
of Place 1
Put in the correct preposition
1) He's swimming ---------the river.
2) Where's Julie? She's ---------------school.
3) The plant is -----------------the table.
4) There is a spider---------------the bath.
5) Please put those apples ------------the bowl.
6) Frank is --------------holiday for three weeks.
7) There are two pockets----------------this bag.
8) I read the story -----------------the newspaper.
9) The cat is sitting ----------------the chair.
10) Lucy was standing ---------------the bus stop.
11) I'll meet you -----------------the cinema.
12) She hung a picture ----------------the wall.
13) John is ------------------the garden.
14) There's nothing----------------TV tonight.
15) I stayed ------------------home all weekend.
16) When I called Lucy, she was --------------the bus.
17) There was a spider --------------the ceiling.
18) Unfortunately, Mr. Brown is --------------hospital.
19) Don't sit ----------------the table! Sit -------------a chair.
20) There are four cushions -----------------the sofa.
Prepositions
of Place 2
Put in the correct preposition
1) The wine is ---------------the bottle.
2) Pass me the dictionary, it's ------------the bookshelf.
3) Jennifer is-----------------work.
4) Berlin is --------------Germany.
5) You have something-------------------your face.
6) Turn left ----------------the traffic lights.
7) She was listening to classical music -----------------the radio.
8) He has a house-----------------------the river.
9) The answer is ------------------the bottom of the page.
10) Julie will be-------------------the plane now.
11) There are a lot of magnets ----------------the fridge.
12) She lives ------------------------London.
13) John is ----------------a taxi. He's coming.
14) I'll meet you ---------------the airport.
15) She stood -------------------the window and looked out.
16) The cat is----------------the house somewhere.
17) Why are you calling so late? I'm already -----------------bed.
18) I waited for Lucy------------------the station.
19) There was a picture of a flower --------------------her
T-shirt.
20) She has a house ---------------Japan.
Prepositions
after Verbs 1
Put in the correct preposition
1) Stop worrying------------your exam - everything will be fine.
2) I've waited ----------------Judy for 30 minutes. I'm going home.
3) Stop talking and concentrate -------------------your work.
4) Don't forget to pay-------------------the newspaper.
5) He explained the computer program ---------------me.
6) I don't know what we'll do at the weekend. It depends ----------------the
weather.
7) She will arrive-------------------Beijing at 3pm.
8) I like to listen -----------------the radio when I wake up.
9) He borrowed £20 ----------------his brother.
10) Who does this coat belong --------------?
11) She left without paying -----------------the meal.
12) It was so hot I couldn't concentrate ----------------my book.
13) Mothers always worry -----------------their children.
14) Please explain the meaning of this word -------------------------your
classmates.
15) I'm fed up of waiting ------------------spring.
16) That car belongs ------------------------my father.
17) She listens -------------------------opera on the tube.
18) Which university you go to depends -----------------your exam
results.
19) A lot of people borrow money ----------------------the bank.
20) When she arrived --------------------the pub, it was already
closed.
Prepositions
after Verbs 2
Put in the correct preposition
1) It's so noisy that I can't concentrate ---------------my
homework.
2) Don't worry - I'll pay---------the tickets.
3) The car belongs ---------------my father, so I don't think we
can use it.
4) I borrowed a pen -----------------------my classmate.
5) I've been waiting -------------------the bus for more than
twenty minutes!.
6) Julie: "What time shall we eat dinner?" Gill: "It
depends -------------John - we'll eat when he gets home".
7) When we arrived-------------the cinema, the film had already
started.
8) Please explain this problem----------------us.
9) She was listening------------------the radio when the doorbell
rang.
10) John worries -----------------------his exam results all the
time.
11) My flat-mate listens ------------------a lot of jazz.
12) David paid --------------------the drinks.
13) Who does that house belong -------------?
14) Don't worry ----------------Gemma, she'll be fine.
15) She borrowed a jumper------------------Julie.
16) Please be quiet. I need to concentrate --------------------this
book.
17) I want to go to the beach tomorrow but it depends----------------the
weather.
18) Who are you waiting----------------?
19) When will we arrive -------------Beijing?
20) A policeman explained ----------------------the children why
they should never run across the road.
Adjectives
and Prepositions Exercise 1
Put in the correct preposition
1) England is famous----------------its rainy weather.
2) I'm very proud ----------------my daughter, she worked very hard.
3) He isn't really interested ------------------getting married.
4) Luke is very pleased -------------------his exam results.
5) Unfortunately, I'm very bad ------------------music.
6) I've been married -------------------my husband for 10 years.
7) She's very excited ---------------------the party.
8) Julie is very different ----------------her sister.
9) My niece is afraid ------------------dogs.
10) A ball gown is similar ---------------------an evening dress.
11) What is your town famous ------------------?
12) It's great you got that job - you should be proud -----------------yourself.
13) I'm very excited-------------------buying a new computer.
14) That bike is similar ---------------------yours.
15) She is interested ----------------------jazz.
16) Are you pleased--------------------your new house?
17) Lucy is extremely good ----------------------languages.
18) Who is James married -----------------------?
19) English cheese is very different ---------------------French
cheese.
20) He isn't afraid------------------anything.
Preposition
Collocations 1
Put in the correct preposition
1) She paid for lunch ------------------advance, so we don't need
to pay now.
2) I went to the wrong house ------------------mistake.
3) Please make sure that you're --------------------time for the
class.
4) I was walking to the station and ------------------chance I saw
the glove that I'd lost on the ground.
5) I love eating out in London. ------------instance, one of my
favorite restaurants has amazing Japanese food.
6) I think the cat is------------------danger on that high roof.
7) I picked up the laptop and --------------------my surprise it
fell apart in my hands.
8) I have a lot --------------------common with my cousin. We both
like many of the same things.
9) If the baby starts to cry, pick her up --------------------once.
10) Did you forget your purse -------------------purpose so you
wouldn't have to pay?
11) It's best to arrive--------------------foot because there is
nowhere to park.
12) What do a whale and a dolphin have -----------------------common?
13) He added salt instead of sugar -------------------mistake.
14) What's your favorite thing to do? ------------------instance,
do you like sport?
15) The book was --------------------reach on a high shelf.
16) I want to go to Germany---------------------a change. I've
never been there.
17) Please let me know -------------------advance if you can't come
to the meeting.
18) She often goes to school ------------------foot.
19) Do you always brush your teeth before bed--------------fail?
20) The little girl broke the toy -------------------purpose
because she was so angry.
21) Please come -----------------once. We have a big problem.
22) She worked very hard and -----------------last she managed to
pass the exam.
23) We need to be -----------------time or my grandmother will
start to get anxious.
24) It feels like owning a house is -------------------reach. I'll
never be able to do it.
25) We thought about it a lot and ------------------last we decided
to buy a new flat.
26) We watched a film ----------------a change. Usually we read.
27) She was really -------------------danger for a few minutes in
the rough sea, but luckily a lifeguard saw her.
28) I went to the bookshop and -------------chance I found a really
interesting book about Switzerland.
29) He walked into the kitchen and------------his surprise there
was food all over the floor.
30) She drinks a liter of water every day------------fail.
.jpeg)
