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Introduction

Meanings and use​

It is difficult to learn to use prepositions correctly in a foreign language. Most English prepositions have several different functions (for instance, one well-known dictionary lists fifteen main uses of at), and these may correspond to several different prepositions in another language. At the same time, different prepositions can have very similar uses (in the morning, on Monday morning, at night). Many nouns, verbs and adjectives are normally followed by particular prepositions: we say the reason for, depend on, angry with somebody. Often the correct preposition cannot be guessed, and one has to learn the expression as a whole. In some expressions English has no preposition where one may be used in another language; in other expressions the opposite is true.

Word order​

In English, prepositions can come at the ends of clauses in certain structures, especially in an informal style. For details, (see here).

  • What are you thinking about?
  • She’s not very easy to talk to.

-ing forms​

When we use verbs after prepositions, we use -ing forms, not infinitives. For details, (see here), (see here).

  • She keeps fit by going to the gym.

When to is a preposition, it is also followed by -ing forms. (see here)

  • I look forward to seeing you soon.

Prepositions before conjunctions​

Prepositions are sometimes dropped before conjunctions and sometimes not. For details, (see here).

  • I’m not certain (of) what I’m supposed to do.
  • The question (of) whether they should turn back was never discussed.

Prepositions, adverb particles and conjunctions​

Words like on, off, up, down can function both as prepositions and as adverb particles. For the difference, (see here). For verbs with prepositions and particles, (see here).

  • She ran up the stairs. (preposition)
  • She picked it up. (adverb particle)

Some prepositions can also function as conjunctions: (see here) (after), (see here) (before) and (see here) (since).

Do you know what’s wrong with these, and why?

You bought it? What money with? (see here)

I admired the patience she spoke with. (see here)

Which period did it happen during? (see here)

For whom is it, madam? (see here)

To where shall I send it? (see here)

In my family, about money was never spoken. (see here)

I knew about that he had problems. (see here)

The judge paid a lot of attention that the child was unhappy. (see here)

He said the parents were responsible for that the child had run away. (see here)

I’m worried where she is. (see here)

I’m concerned about if you’re ill. (see here)

I don’t like the idea of to get married. (see here)

Try to see it after my point of view. (see here)

She looks much younger on this picture. (see here)

I like walking under the rain. (see here)

What time do we arrive to Cardiff? (see here)

I’m not bad in tennis. (see here)

She doesn’t want to depend of her parents. (see here)

Who’s the woman dressed with green? (see here)

We must discuss about your plans. (see here)

See you on next Monday. (see here)