PREPOSITION in Use

PREPOSITION

            The word used before a noun, pronoun and a noun phrase indicating different relations is called a Preposition. The word preposition means ‘that which is placed before’. According to Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary: A preposition is a word or group of words, such as in, from, to, out of and on behalf of , used before a noun or pronoun to show place, position, time or method.

            At, by, for, from, in, of, off, on, out, through, till, to, up, with, about, above, across, against, along, amidst, among, amongst, around, before, behind, below, beneath, beside, between, beyond, inside, outside, under, underneath, within, without, like, past, according to, in accordance with, in place of, agreeably to, in addition to, in reference to, along with, in (on) behalf of, in regard to, away from, in case of, in spite of, because of, in comparison to, instead of, by dint of, in compliance with, in the event of, by means of, in consequence of, on account of, by reason of, in course of, owing to, by virtue of, in favour of, with a view to, by way of, in front of, with an eye to, conformably to, in lieu of, with reference to, for the sake of, in order to, with regard to, barring, concerning, considering, during, notwithstanding, pending, regarding, respecting, touching,

 ‘AT’

1 Used to say where something/somebody is or where something happens: At the corner of the street / We changed at Crewe. They arrived late at the airport. At the roundabout take the third exit. I'll be at home all morning. She's at Tom's (= at Tom's house). I met her at the hospital. How many people were there at the concert?

2 Used to say where somebody works or studies: He's been at the bank longer than anyone else. She's at Yale (= Yale University).

3 Used to say when something happens: We left at 2 o'clock. / At the end of the week / We woke at dawn. I didn't know at the time of writing (= when I wrote). At night you can see the stars. (BrE) What are you doing at the weekend?

4 Used to state the age at which somebody does something: She got married at 25. He left school at the age of 16.

5 In the direction of or towards somebody / something: What are you looking at? He pointed a gun at her. Somebody threw paint at the prime minister.

6 Used after a verb to show that somebody tries to do something, or partly does something, but does not succeed or complete it: He clutched wildly at the rope as he fell. She nibbled at a sandwich (= ate only small bits of it).

7 Used to state the distance away from something: I held it at arm's length. Can you read a car number plate at fifty metres?

8 Used to show the situation somebody / something is in, what somebody is doing or what is happening: The country is now at war.

I felt at a disadvantage. I think Mr Harris is at lunch.

9 Used to show a rate, speed, etc: He was driving at 70 mph. The noise came at two-minute intervals (= once every two minutes). Prices start at $1000. The book retails at £19.95.

10 ~ somebody's/something's best/worst, etc. used to say that somebody/something is as good, bad, etc. as they can be: This was Murray at his best. The garden's at its most beautiful in June.

11 Used with adjectives to show how well somebody does something: I'm good at French. She's hopeless at managing people.

12 Used with adjectives to show the cause of something: They were impatient at the delay. She was delighted at the result.

13 (Formal) in response to something: They attended the dinner at the chairman's invitation.

14 (NAmE) used when giving a telephone number: You can reach me at 637-2335, extension 354.

15 (Computing) the symbol ( @ ) used in email addresses: / At that: used when you are giving an extra piece of information: He managed to buy a car after all—and a nice one at that.

            Be at it again: to be doing something, especially something bad: Look at all that graffiti—those kids have been at it again. / Where it's at (informal) a place or an activity that is very popular or fashionable: Judging by the crowds waiting to get in, this seems to be where it's at.

‘IN’

1 At a point within an area or a space: A country in Africa / The kids were playing in the street. It's in that drawer. I read about it in the paper.

2 Within the shape of something; surrounded by something: She was lying in bed. / Sitting in an armchair / Leave the key in the lock. Soak it in cold water.

3 Into something: He dipped his brush in the paint. She got in her car and drove off.

4 Forming the whole or part of something / somebody; contained within something / somebody: There are 31 days in May. All the paintings in the collection / I recognize his father in him (= his character is similar to his father's).

5 During a period of time: in 2009, in the 18th century , in spring / summer / autumn / winter , in the fall , in March , in the morning / afternoon / evening , I'm getting forgetful in my old age.

6 After a particular length of time: To return in a few minutes/hours/days/months / It will be ready in a week's time (= one week from now). She learnt to drive in three weeks (= after three weeks she could drive).

7 (Used in negative sentences or after first, last, etc.) for a particular period of time: I haven't seen him in years. It's the first letter I've had in ten days.

8 Wearing something: Dressed in their best clothes / The man in the hat / To be in uniform / She was all in black.

9 Used to describe physical surroundings: We went out in the rain. He was sitting alone in the darkness.

10 Used to show a state or condition: I'm in love! The house is in good repair. I must put my affairs in order. / A man in his thirties / The daffodils were in full bloom.

11 Involved in something; taking part in something: To act in a play

12 Used to show somebody's job or profession: He is in the army. She's in computers. In business

13 Used to show the form, shape, arrangement or quantity of something: A novel in three parts / Roll it up in a ball. They sat in rows. People flocked in their thousands to see her.

14 Used to show the language, material etc used: Say it in English. She wrote in pencil. Put it in writing. I paid in cash. He spoke in a loud voice.

15 Concerning something: She was not lacking in courage. / A country rich in minerals / Three metres in length

16 While doing something; while something is happening: In attempting to save the child from drowning, she nearly lost her own life. In all the commotion I forgot to tell him the news.

17 Used to introduce the name of a person who has a particular quality: We're losing a first-rate editor in Jen.

18 Used to show a rate or relative amount: a gradient of one in five: A tax rate of 22 pence in the pound

‘INTO’

1 To a position in or inside something: Come into the house. She dived into the water. He threw the letter into the fire. (Figurative) She turned and walked off into the night.

2 In the direction of something: Speak clearly into the microphone. Driving into the sun, we had to shade our eyes.

3 To a point at which you hit somebody/something: The truck crashed into a parked car.

4 To a point during a period of time: She carried on working late into the night. He didn't get married until he was well into his forties.

5 Used to show a change in state: The fruit can be made into jam. Can you translate this passage into German? They came into power in 2008. She was sliding into depression.

6 Used to show the result of an action: He was shocked into a confession of guilt.

7 About or concerning something: An inquiry into safety procedures

8 Used when you are dividing numbers: 3 into 24 is 8. He's into surfing in a big way.

‘ON’

1 In or into a position covering, touching or forming part of a surface: A picture on a wall / There's a mark on your skirt. / The diagram on page 5 / Put it down on the table. He had been hit on the head. She climbed on to the bed. This could also be written onto the bed

2 Supported by somebody / something: She was standing on one foot. Try lying on your back. Hang your coat on that hook.

3 Used to show a means of transport: He was on the plane from New York. To travel on the bus / tube / coach / I came on my bike. A woman on horseback

4 Used to show a day or date: He came on Sunday. We meet on Tuesdays. On May the first/the first of May / On the evening of May the first / On one occasion / On your birthday

5 Immediately after something: On arriving home I discovered they had gone. Please report to reception on arrival. There was a letter waiting for him on his return.

6 About something / somebody: A book on South Africa / She tested us on irregular verbs.

7 Being carried by somebody; in the possession of somebody: Have you got any money on you?

8 Used to show that somebody belongs to a group or an organization: To be on the committee/staff/jury/panel / Whose side are you on (= which of two or more different views do you support)?

9 Eating or drinking something; using a drug or a medicine regularly: He lived on a diet of junk food. The doctor put me on antibiotics.

10 Used to show direction: On the left/right / He turned his back on us.

11 At or near a place: A town on the coast / A house on the Thames / We lived on an estate.

12 Used to show the basis or reason for something: A story based on fact / On their advice I applied for the job.

13 Paid for by something: To live on a pension / a student grant / To be on a low wage / You can't feed a family on £50 a week. Drinks are on me (= I am paying).

14 By means of something; using something: She played a tune on her guitar. The information is available on the Internet. We spoke on the phone. What's on TV? The programme's on Channel 4.

15 Used with some nouns or adjectives to say who or what is affected by something: A ban on smoking. He's hard on his kids. Go easy on the mayo! (= do not take / give me too much)

16 Compared with somebody/something: Sales are up on last year.

17 Used to describe an activity or a state: To be on business / holiday / vacation. The book is currently on loan.

18 Used when giving a telephone number: You can get me on 020 7946 0887. She's on extension 2401.

‘AGAINST’

1 Opposing or disagreeing with somebody/something: The fight against terrorism. We're playing against the league champions next week. We were rowing against the current. That's against the law. She was forced to marry against her will. Are you for or against the death penalty? She is against seeing (= does not want to see) him. I'd advise you against doing that.

2 Not to the advantage or favour of somebody / something: The evidence is against him. Her age is against her.

3 Close to, touching or hitting somebody / something: Put the piano there, against the wall. The rain beat against the windows.

4 In order to prevent something from happening or to reduce the damage caused by something: An injection against rabies / They took precautions against fire. Are we insured against theft?

5 With something in the background, as a contrast: His red clothes stood out clearly against the snow. (Figurative) The love story unfolds against a background of civil war.

6 Used when you are comparing two things: You must weigh the benefits against the cost. Check your receipts against the statement. What's the rate of exchange against the dollar?

‘BETWEEN’

1 In or into the space separating two or more points, objects, people, etc: Q comes between P and R in the English alphabet. I sat down between Jo and Diana. Switzerland lies between France, Germany, Austria and Italy. The paper had fallen down between the desk and the wall. (Figurative) My job is somewhere between a secretary and a personal assistant.

2 In the period of time that separates two days, years, events, etc: It's cheaper between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. Don't eat between meals. Children must attend school between the ages of 5 and 16. Many changes took place between the two world wars.

3 At some point along a scale from one amount, weight, distance, etc. to another: It weighed between nine and ten kilos. The temperature remained between 25 ° C and 30 ° C all week.

4 (Of a line) separating one place from another: The border between Sweden and Norway

5 From one place to another: We fly between Rome and Paris twice daily.

6 Used to show a connection or relationship a difference/distinction/contrast between two things: a link between unemployment and crime. There's a lot of bad feeling between them. I had to choose between the two jobs.

7 Shared by two or more people or things: We ate a pizza between us. This is just between you and me / between ourselves (= it is a secret).

8 By putting together the efforts or actions of two or more people or groups: We ought to be able to manage it between us. China and India between them account for a third of the world's population.

9 ~ doing something used to show that several activities are involved: Between working full-time and taking care of the kids, he didn't have much time for hobbies.

‘AMONG’

1 Surrounded by somebody / something; in the middle of somebody / something: A house among the trees. They strolled among the crowds. I found the letter amongst his papers. It's OK, you're among friends now.

2 Being included or happening in groups of things or people: A British woman was among the survivors. He was among the last to leave. This attitude is common among the under-25s. ‘What was wrong with the job?’ ‘Well, the pay wasn't good, among other things.’ Discuss it among yourselves (= with each other) first.

3 Used when you are dividing or choosing something, and three or more people or things are involved: They divided the money up among their three children.

‘ABOUT’

1 On the subject of somebody/something; in connection with somebody/something: A book about flowers. Tell me all about it. What's she so angry about? There's something strange about him. I don't know what you're on about (= talking about). There's nothing you can do about it now.

2 Used to describe the purpose or an aspect of something: Movies are all about making money these days. What was all that about? (= what was the reason for what has just happened?)

3 Busy with something; doing something: Everywhere people were going about their daily business. And while you're about it … (= while you're doing that)

4 (Especially BrE) in many directions in a place; here and there: We wandered about the town for an hour or so. He looked about the room.

5 (Especially BrE) in various parts of a place; here and there: The papers were strewn about the room.

6 (Especially BrE) next to a place or person; in the area mentioned: She's somewhere about the office.

7 (Literary) surrounding somebody/something: She wore a shawl about her shoulders. How/what about…?

1 Used when asking for information about somebody/something: How about Ruth? Have you heard from her? I'm having fish. What about you?

2 Used to make a suggestion: How about going for a walk? (Especially NAmE ) How about we go for a walk? What about a break?

‘BY’

1 Near somebody / something; at the side of somebody / something; beside somebody / something: A house by the river. The telephone is by the window. Come and sit by me.

2 Used, usually after a passive verb, to show who or what does, creates or causes something: He was knocked down by a bus. A play by Ibsen. Who's that book by? I was frightened by the noise.

3 Used for showing how or in what way something is done: The house is heated by gas. May I pay by cheque? I will contact you by letter. To travel by boat/bus/car/plane. To travel by air/land/sea. Switch it on by pressing this button.

4 Used before particular nouns without the, to say that something happens as a result of something: They met by chance. I did it by mistake. The coroner's verdict was ‘death by misadventure’.

5 Not later than the time mentioned; before: Can you finish the work by five o'clock? I'll have it done by tomorrow. By this time next week we'll be in New York. He ought to have arrived by now/by this time. By the time (that) this letter reaches you I will have left the country.

6 Past somebody / something: He walked by me without speaking.

7 During something; in a particular situation: To travel by day / night. We had to work by candlelight.

8 Used to show the degree or amount of something: The bullet missed him by two inches. House prices went up by 10%. It would be better by far (= much better) to…

9 From what something shows or says; according to something: By my watch it is two o'clock. I could tell by the look on her face that something terrible had happened. By law, you are a child until you are 18.

10 Used to show the part of somebody / something that somebody touches, holds, etc.: I took him by the hand. She seized her by the hair. Pick it up by the handle!

11 Used with the to show the period or quantity used for buying, selling or measuring something: We rented the car by the day. They're paid by the hour. We only sell it by the metre.

12 Used to state the rate at which something happens: They're improving day by day. We'll do it bit by bit. It was getting worse by the minute (= very fast). The children came in two by two (= in groups of two).

13 Used to show the measurements of something: The room measures fifteen feet by twenty feet.

14 Used when multiplying or dividing: 6 multiplied by 2 equals 12. 6 divided by 2 equals 3.

15 Used for giving more information about where somebody comes from, what somebody does, etc: He's German by birth. They're both doctors by profession.

16 Used when swearing to mean ‘in the name of’: I swear by Almighty God…

‘WITH’

1 In the company or presence of somebody / something: She lives with her parents. I have a client with me right now. A nice steak with a bottle of red wine

2 Having or carrying something: A girl with (= who has) red hair, a jacket with a hood. He looked at her with a hurt expression. They're both in bed with flu. A man with a suitcase

3 Using something: Cut it with a knife. It is treated with acid before being analysed.

4 Used to say what fills, covers, etc. something: The bag was stuffed with dirty clothes. Sprinkle the dish with salt.

5 In opposition to somebody / something; against somebody / something: To fight with somebody / to play tennis with somebody / at war with a neighbouring country / I had an argument with my boss.

6 Concerning; in the case of: Be careful with the glasses. Are you pleased with the result? Don't be angry with her. With these students it's pronunciation that's the problem.

7 Used when considering one fact in relation to another: She won't be able to help us with all the family commitments she has. It's much easier compared with last time.

8 Including: The meal with wine came to $20 each. With all the lesson preparation I have to do I work 12 hours a day.

9 Used to show the way in which somebody does something: He behaved with great dignity. She sleeps with the window open. Don't stand with your hands in your pockets.

10 Because of; as a result of: She blushed with embarrassment. His fingers were numb with cold.

11 Because of something and as it happens: The shadows lengthened with the approach of sunset. Skill comes with practice.

12 In the same direction as something: Marine mammals generally swim with the current.

13 Used to show who has possession of or responsibility for something: The keys are with reception. Leave it with me.

14 Employed by; using the services of: She acted with a touring company for three years. I bank with HSOMEBODYC.

15 Showing separation from something / somebody: I could never part with this ring. Can we dispense with the formalities?

16 Despite something: With all her faults I still love her.

17 Used in exclamations: Off to bed with you! Down with school!

‘UNDER’

1 In, to or through a position that is below something: Have you looked under the bed? She placed the ladder under (= just lower than) the window. The dog squeezed under the gate and ran into the road.

2 Below the surface of something; covered by something: The boat lay under several feet of water.

3 Less than; younger than: An annual income of under £10 000 / It took us under an hour. Nobody under 18 is allowed to buy alcohol.

4 Used to say who or what controls, governs or manages somebody / something: The country is now under martial law. The coinage was reformed under Elizabeth I (= when she was queen) . She has a staff of 19 working under her. Under its new conductor, the orchestra has established an international reputation.

5 According to an agreement, a law or a system: Six suspects are being held under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. Under the terms of the lease you had no right to sublet the property. Is the television still under guarantee?

6 Experiencing a particular process: The hotel is still under construction. The matter is under investigation.

7 Affected by something: The wall collapsed under the strain. I've been feeling under stress lately. I'm under no illusions about what hard work this will be. You'll be under anaesomethingetic, so you won't feel a thing.

8 Using a particular name: She also writes under the pseudonym of Barbara Vine.

9 Found in a particular part of a book, list, etc: If it's not under ‘sports’, try looking under ‘games’.

‘FOR’

1 Used to show who is intended to have or use something or where something is intended to be put: There's a letter for you. It's a book for children. We got a new table for the dining room. This is the place for me (= I like it very much).

2 In order to help somebody / something: What can I do for you (= how can I help you)? Can you translate this letter for me? I took her classes for her while she was sick. Soldiers are fighting for their country.

3 Concerning somebody / something: They are anxious for her safety. Fortunately for us, the weather changed.

4 As a representative of: I am speaking for everyone in this department.

5 Employed by: She's working for IBM.

6 Meaning: Shaking your head for ‘No’ is not universal.

7 In support of somebody / something: Are you for or against the proposal? They voted for independence in a referendum. There's a strong case for postponing the exam. I'm all for people having fun. ‘What does Naomi think about the move?’ ‘She's all for it.’

8 Used to show purpose or function: a machine for slicing bread / Let's go for a walk. Are you learning English for pleasure or for your work? What did you do that for (= Why did you do that)?

9 Used to show a reason or cause: The town is famous for its cathedral. She gave me a watch for my birthday. He got an award for bravery. I couldn't speak for laughing. He didn't answer for fear of hurting her.

10 In order to obtain something: He came to me for advice. For more information, call this number. There were over fifty applicants for the job.

11 In exchange for something: Copies are available for two dollars each. I'll swap these two bottles for that one.

12 Considering what can be expected from somebody / something: The weather was warm for the time of year. She's tall for her age. He's not bad for a beginner. That's too much responsibility for a child.

13 Better, happier, etc. ~ something better, happier, etc. following something: You'll feel better for a good night's sleep. This room would look more cheerful for a spot of paint.

14 Used to show where somebody/something is going: Is this the bus for Chicago? She knew she was destined for a great future.

15 Used to show a length of time: I'm going away for a few days. That's all the news there is for now.

16 Used to show that something is arranged or intended to happen at a particular time: An appointment for May 12 / We are invited for 7.30.

17 Used to show the occasion when something happens: I'm warning you for the last time—stop talking!

18 Used to show a distance: The road went on for miles and miles.

19 Used to say how difficult, necessary, pleasant, etc. something is that somebody might do or has done: It's useless for us to continue. There's no need for you to go. For her to have survived such an ordeal was remarkable. The box is too heavy for me to lift. Is it clear enough for you to read?

20 Used to show who can or should do something: It's not for me to say why he left. How to spend the money is for you to decide.

‘OF’

1 Belonging to somebody; relating to somebody: A friend of mine / The love of a mother for her child / The role of the teacher / Can't you throw out that old bike of Tommy's? / The paintings of Monet / When you are talking about everything someone has painted, written, etc, use of. When you are referring to one or more examples of somebody's work, use by a painting by Monet

2 Belonging to something; being part of something; relating to something: The lid of the box / The director of the company / A member of the team / The result of the debate

3 Coming from a particular background or living in a place: a woman of Italian descent / The people of Wales

4 Concerning or showing somebody / something: A story of passion / A photo of my dog / A map of India

5 Used to say what somebody/something is, consists of, or contains: The city of Dublin / The issue of housing / A crowd of people / A glass of milk

6 Used with measurements and expressions of time, age, etc: 2 kilos of potatoes / an increase of 2% / A girl of 12 / The fourth of July / The year of his birth / (old-fashioned) We would often have a walk of an evening.

7 Used to show somebody/something belongs to a group, often after some, a few , etc: Some of his friends / A few of the problems / The most famous of all the stars

8 Used to show the position of something / somebody in space or time: just north of Detroit / at the time of the revolution / (NAmE) at a quarter of eleven tonight (= 10.45 p. m)

9 Used after nouns formed from verbs. The noun after ‘of’ can be either the object or the subject of the action: The arrival of the police (= they arrive) / Criticism of the police (= they are criticized) / Fear of the dark / The howling of the wind

10 Used after some verbs before mentioning somebody / something involved in the action: To deprive somebody of something / He was cleared of all blame. Think of a number, any number.

11 Used after some adjectives before mentioning somebody / something that a feeling relates to: To be proud of something

12 Used to give your opinion of somebody's behaviour: It was kind of you to offer.

13 Used when one noun describes a second one: Where's that idiot of a boy? (= the boy that you think is stupid)

‘FROM’

1 Used to show where somebody / something starts: She began to walk away from him. Has the train from Bristol arrived?

2 Used to show when something starts: We're open from 8 to 7 every day. He was blind from birth.

3 Used to show who sent or gave something / somebody: A letter from my brother / Information from witnesses / the man from (= representing) the insurance company

4 Used to show what the origin of somebody / something is: I'm from Italy. / Documents from the sixteenth century / Quotations from Shakespeare / Heat from the sun

5 Used to show the material that something is made of: Steel is made from iron.

6 Used to show how far apart two places are: 100 metres from the scene of the accident

7 Used to show somebody's position or point of view: You can see the island from here. From a financial point of view the project was a disaster.

8 ~ something (to something) used to show the range of something: The temperature varies from 30 degrees to minus 20. The store sells everything from shoelaces to computers.

Conditions vary from school to school.

9 ~ something (to something) used to show the state or form of something/somebody before a change: Things have gone from bad to worse. Translating from English to Spanish / You need a break from routine.

10 Used to show that somebody/something is separated or removed: The party was ousted from power after eighteen years.

11 Used to show that something is prevented: She saved him from drowning.

12 Used to show the reason for something: She felt sick from tiredness.

13 Used to show the reason for making a judgement: You can tell a lot about a person from their handwriting. From what I heard the company's in deep trouble.

14 Used when distinguishing between two people or things: Is Portuguese very different from Spanish? I can't tell one twin from the other. From…on: starting at the time mentioned and continuously after that / From now on you can work on your own. She never spoke to him again from that day on.

‘THROUGH’

1 From one end or side of something/somebody to the other: The burglar got in through the window. The bullet went straight through him. Her knees had gone through (= made holes in) her jeans. The sand ran through (= between) my fingers. The path led through the trees to the river. The doctor pushed his way through the crowd. The Charles River flows through Boston.

2 See, hear, etc. ~ something to see, hear, etc. something from the other side of an object or a substance: I couldn't hear their conversation through the wall. He could just make out three people through the mist.

3 From the beginning to the end of an activity, a situation or a period of time: The children are too young to sit through a concert. He will not live through the night. I'm halfway through (= reading) her second novel.

4 Past a barrier, stage or test: Go through this gate, and you'll see the house on your left. He drove through a red light (= passed it when he should have stopped). First I have to get through the exams. The bill had a difficult passage through Parliament. I'd never have got through it all (= a difficult situation) without you.

5 Until, and including: We'll be in New York Tuesday through Friday.

6 By means of; because of: You can only achieve success through hard work. It was through him (= as a result of his help) that I got the job. The accident happened through no fault of mine.

‘TO’

1 In the direction of something; towards something: I walked to the office. It fell to the ground. It was on the way to the station. He's going to Paris. / My first visit to Africa / He pointed to something on the opposite bank. Her childhood was spent travelling from place to place.

2 ~ the something (of something) located in the direction mentioned from something: Place the cursor to the left of the first word. There are mountains to the north.

3 As far as something: The meadows lead down to the river. Her hair fell to her waist.

4 Reaching a particular state: The vegetables were cooked to perfection. He tore the letter to pieces. She sang the baby to sleep. The letter reduced her to tears (= made her cry). His expression changed from amazement to joy.

5 Used to show the end or limit of a range or period of time: a drop in profits from $105 million to around $75 million / I'd say he was 25 to 30 years old (= approximately 25 or 30 years old). I like all kinds of music from opera to reggae. We only work from Monday to Friday. I watched the programme from beginning to end.

6 Before the start of something: How long is it to lunch? (Especially BrE) It's five to ten (= five minutes before ten o'clock).

7 Used to show the person or thing that receives something: He gave it to his sister. I'll explain to you where everything goes. I am deeply grateful to my parents. Who did she address the letter to? (Formal) To whom did she address the letter?

8 Used to show the person or thing that is affected by an action: She is devoted to her family. What have you done to your hair?

9 Used to show that two things are attached or connected: Attach this rope to the front of the car.

10 Used to show a relationship between one person or thing and another: She's married to an Italian. / The Japanese ambassador to France / The key to the door / The solution to this problem

11 Directed towards; concerning: It was a threat to world peace. She made a reference to her recent book.

12 Used to introduce the second part of a comparison or ratio: I prefer walking to climbing. The industry today is nothing to what it once was. We won by six goals to three.

13 Used to show a quantity or rate: There are 2.54 centimetres to an inch. This car does 30 miles to the gallon.

14 In honour of somebody / something: A monument to the soldiers who died in the war / Let's drink to Julia and her new job.

15 While something else is happening or being done: He left the stage to prolonged applause.

16 Used after verbs of movement to mean ‘with the intention of giving something’: People rushed to her rescue and picked her up.

17 Used to show somebody's attitude or reaction to something: His music isn't really to my taste. To her astonishment, he smiled.

18 Used to show what somebody's opinion or feeling about something is: It sounded like crying to me.

‘ABOVE’

1 At or to a higher place or position than something / somebody: The water came above our knees. We were flying above the clouds. The people in the apartment above mine / A captain in the navy ranks above a captain in the army. They finished the year six places above their local rivals.

2 More than something; greater in number, level or age than somebody/something: Inflation is above 6%. Temperatures have been above average. We cannot accept children above the age of 10.

3 Of greater importance or of higher quality than somebody / something: I rate her above most other players of her age.

4 Too good or too honest to do something: She's not above lying when it suits her. He's above suspicion (= he is completely trusted).

5 (Of a sound) louder or clearer than another sound: I couldn't hear her above the noise of the traffic.

‘ACROSS’

1 From one side to the other side of something: He walked across the field. I drew a line across the page. A grin spread across her face. Where's the nearest bridge across the river?

2 On the other side of something: There's a bank right across the street.

3 On or over a part of the body: He hit him across the face. It's too tight across the back.

4 In every part of a place, group of people, etc. (throughout): Her family is scattered across the country. This view is common across all sections of the community.

‘ALONG’

1 From one end to or towards the other end of something: They walked slowly along the road. I looked along the shelves for the book I needed.

2 In a line that follows the side of something long: Houses had been built along both sides of the river.

3 At a particular point on or beside something long: You'll find his office just along the corridor.

‘BEYOND’

 

1 On or to the further side of something: The road continues beyond the village up into the hills.

2 Later than a particular time: It won't go on beyond midnight. I know what I'll be doing for the next three weeks but I haven't thought beyond that.

3 More than something: Our success was far beyond what we thought possible. She's got nothing beyond her state pension.

4 Used to say that something is not possible: The bicycle was beyond repair (= is too badly damaged to repair). The situation is beyond our control.

5 Too far or too advanced for somebody / something: The handle was just beyond my reach. The exercise was beyond the abilities of most of the class. Be beyond somebody (informal) to be impossible for somebody to imagine, understand or do / It's beyond me why she wants to marry Jeff.

‘UP’

1 To or in a higher position somewhere: She climbed up the flight of steps. The village is further up the valley.

2 Along or further along a road or street: We live just up the road, past the post office.

3 Towards the place where a river starts: A cruise up the Rhine / Up and down something in one direction and then in the opposite direction along something / I looked up and down the corridor.

‘AROUND’

1 Surrounding somebody / something; on each side of something: The house is built around a central courtyard. He put his arms around her.

2 On, to or from the other side of somebody / something: Our house is just around the corner. The bus came around the bend. There must be a way around the problem.

3 In a circle: They walked around the lake.

4 In or to many places in an area: They walked around the town looking for a place to eat.

5 To fit in with particular people, ideas, etc: I can't arrange everything around your timetable!

‘BEHIND’

1 At or towards the back of somebody / something, and often hidden by it or them: Who's the girl standing behind Jan? Stay close behind me. / A small street behind the station / She glanced behind her. Don't forget to lock the door behind you (= when you leave). The sun disappeared behind the clouds.

2 Making less progress than somebody / something: He's behind the rest of the class in reading. We're behind schedule (= late).

3 Giving support to or approval of somebody / something: She knew that, whatever she decided, her family was right behind her.

4 Responsible for starting or developing something: What's behind that happy smile (= what is causing it)? He was the man behind the plan to build a new hospital.

5 Used to say that something is in somebody's past: The accident is behind you now, so try to forget it. She has ten years' useful experience behind her.

‘BELOW’

1 At or to a lower level or position than somebody / something: He dived below the surface of the water. Please do not write below this line. Skirts will be worn below (= long enough to cover) the knee.

2 Of a lower amount or standard than somebody / something: The temperatures remained below freezing all day. Her work was well below average for the class.

3 Of a lower rank or of less importance than somebody / something: A police sergeant is below an inspector.

‘WITHOUT’

 

1 Not having, experiencing or showing something: They had gone two days without food. He found the place without difficulty. She spoke without much enthusiasm.

2 Not in the company of somebody: Don't go without me.

3 Not using or taking something: Can you see without your glasses? Don't go out without your coat.

4 Not doing the action mentioned: ~ doing something He left without saying goodbye. You can't make an omelette without breaking eggs. Without wanting to criticize, I think you could have done better. (= used before you make a critical comment) / ~ somebody doing something The party was organized without her knowing anything about it.

‘DURING’

1 All through a period of time: during the 1990s / There are extra flights to Colorado during the winter. Please remain seated during the performance.

2 At some point in a period of time: He was taken to the hospital during the night. I only saw her once during my stay in Rome. During is used to say when something happens; for answers the question ‘how long?’ I stayed in London for a week. I stayed in London during a week.

‘UPON’

1 (formal, especially BrE) = on: The decision was based upon two considerations. Although the word upon has the same meaning as on , it is usually used in more formal contexts or in phrases such as once upon a time and row upon row of seats .

2 …upon… used to emphasize that there is a large number or amount of something: Mile upon mile of dusty road / Thousands upon thousands of letters / (almost) upon you - If something in the future is almost upon you, it is going to arrive or happen very soon. The summer season was almost upon them again.

‘ONTO’

1 Used with verbs to express movement on or to a particular place or position: Move the books onto the second shelf. She stepped down from the train onto the platform.

2 Used to show that something faces in a particular direction: The window looked out onto the terrace.

Be onto somebody

1 (informal) to know about what somebody has done wrong: She knew the police would be onto them.

2 To be talking to somebody, usually in order to ask or tell them something: They've been onto me for ages to get a job. Be onto something to know about something or be in a situation that could lead to a good result for you / Scientists believe they are onto something big. / She's onto a good thing with that new job.

‘OVER’

1 Resting on the surface of somebody / something and partly or completely covering them / it: She put a blanket over the sleeping child. He wore an overcoat over his suit. She put her hand over her mouth to stop herself from screaming.

2 In or to a position higher than but not touching somebody / something; above somebody / something: They held a large umbrella over her. The balcony juts out over the street. There was a lamp hanging over the table.

3 From one side of something to the other; across something: A bridge over the river / They ran over the grass. They had a wonderful view over the park.

4 On the far or opposite side of something: He lives over the road.

5 So as to cross something and be on the other side: She climbed over the wall.

6 Falling from or down from a place: The car had toppled over the cliff. He didn't dare look over the edge.

7 All ~ in or on all or most parts of something: Snow is falling all over the country. They've travelled all over the world. There were papers lying around all over the place.

8 More than a particular time, amount, cost, etc: Over 3 million copies sold / She stayed in Lagos for over a month. / He's over sixty.

9 Used to show that somebody has control or authority: She has only the director over her. He ruled over a great empire. She has editorial control over what is included.

10 During something: We'll discuss it over lunch. Over the next few days they got to know the town well. She has not changed much over the years. He built up the business over a period of ten years. We're away over (= until after) the New Year.

11 Past a particular difficult stage or situation: We're over the worst of the recession. It took her ages to get over her illness.

12 Because of or concerning something; about something: An argument over money / A disagreement over the best way to proceed

13 Using something; by means of something: We heard it over the radio. She wouldn't tell me over the phone.

14 Louder than something: I couldn't hear what he said over the noise of the traffic.

Over and above

In addition to something: There are other factors over and above those we have discussed.

‘TOWARDS’

 

1 In the direction of somebody / something: They were heading towards the German border.

She had her back towards me.

2 Getting closer to achieving something: This is a first step towards political union.

3 Close or closer to a point in time: Towards the end of April

4 In relation to somebody / something: He was warm and tender towards her. / Our attitude towards death

5 With the aim of obtaining something, or helping somebody to obtain something: The money will go towards a new school building (= will help pay for it).

‘AFTER’

1 Later than something; following something in time: We'll leave after lunch. They arrived shortly after 5. Not long after that he resigned. Let's meet the day after tomorrow/the week after next. After winning the prize she became famous overnight. After an hour I went home (= when an hour had passed). (NAmE) It's ten after seven in the morning (= 7.10 a.m.)

2 … after… used to show that something happens many times or continuously: Day after day of hot weather / I've told you time after time not to do that.

3 Behind somebody when they have left; following somebody: Shut the door after you. I'm always having to clean up after the children (= clean the place after they have left it dirty and untidy). He ran after her with the book. She was left staring after him.

4 Next to and following somebody/something in order or importance: Your name comes after mine in the list. He's the tallest, after Richard. After you (= Please go first). After you with the paper (= Can I have it next?).

5 In contrast to something: It was pleasantly cool in the house after the sticky heat outside.

6 As a result of or because of something that has happened: I'll never forgive him after what he said.

7 Despite something; although something has happened: I can't believe she'd do that, not after all I've done for her.

8 Trying to find or catch somebody / something: The police are after him. He's after a job at our place.

9 About somebody / something: She asked after you (= how you were).

10 In the style of somebody / something; following the example of somebody / something: A painting after Goya / We named the baby ‘Ena’ after her grandmother.

11 After - (in adjectives) happening or done later than the time or event mentioned: after-hours drinking (= after closing time) / an after-school club / after-dinner mints

After All

1 despite what has been said or expected: So you made it after all!

2 used when you are explaining something, or giving a reason: He should have paid. He suggested it, after all.

Be after doing something (IrishE): 1 to be going to do something soon; to be intending to do something soon / 2 to have just done something

‘SINCE’

1 (used with the present perfect or past perfect tense) from a time in the past until a later past time, or until now: She's been off work since Tuesday. We've lived here since 2006. I haven't eaten since breakfast. He's been working in a bank since leaving school. Since the party she had only spoken to him once. ‘They've split up.’ ‘Since when?’ That was years ago. I've changed jobs since then. Use for, not since, with a period of time I've been learning English for five years. I've been learning English since five years.

2 ~ when? used when you are showing that you are angry about something: Since when did he ever listen to me?

‘DOWN’

 

1 From a high or higher point on something to a lower one: The stone rolled down the hill. Tears ran down her face. Her hair hung down her back to her waist.

2 Along; towards the direction in which you are facing: He lives just down the street. Go down the road till you reach the traffic lights. There's a bridge a mile down the river from here.

3 All through a period of time: An exhibition of costumes down the ages (= from all periods of history)

‘OPPOSITE’

1 On the other side of a particular area from somebody/something, and usually facing them: I sat opposite him during the meal (= on the other side of the table). The bank is opposite the supermarket (= on the other side of the road). Write your address opposite (= next to) your name.

2 Acting in a film/movie or play as the partner of somebody: She starred opposite Tom Hanks.

‘WITHIN’

1 before a particular period of time has passed; during a particular period of time: You should receive a reply within seven days. The ambulance arrived within minutes of the call being made. Two elections were held within the space of a year.

2 Not further than a particular distance from something: A house within a mile of the station / Is it within walking distance?

3 Inside the range or limits of something: That question is not within the scope of this talk. We are now within range of enemy fire. He finds it hard to live within his income (= without spending more than he earns).

4 (Formal) inside something / somebody: The noise seems to be coming from within the building. There is discontent within the farming industry. Despite her grief, she found a hidden strength within herself.

‘BENEATH’

1 (Formal) in or to a lower position than somebody / something; under somebody / something: They found the body buried beneath a pile of leaves. The boat sank beneath the waves.

2 Not good enough for somebody: He considers such jobs beneath him. They thought she had married beneath her (= married a man of lower social status).

‘THROUGHOUT’

1 In or into every part of something: They export their products to markets throughout the world.

2 During the whole period of time of something: The museum is open daily throughout the year.

‘UNTO’

(Old Use): 1 to or towards somebody / something: The angel appeared unto him in a dream.

2 Until a particular time or event: The knights swore loyalty unto death.

‘NEAR’

 (Also near to, nearer (to), nearest (to)) Near to is not usually used before the name of a place, person, festival, etc.

1 At a short distance away from somebody / something: Do you live near here? Go and sit nearer (to) the fire.

2 A short period of time from something: My birthday is very near Christmas. I'll think about it nearer (to) the time (= when it is just going to happen).

3 Used before a number to mean ‘approximately’, ‘just below or above’: Share prices are near their record high of last year. Profits fell from $11 million to nearer $8 million.

4 Similar to somebody/something in quality, size, etc: Nobody else comes near her in intellect. He's nearer 70 than 60. This colour is nearest (to) the original.

5 ~ (doing) something close to a particular state: A state near (to) death / She was near to tears (= almost crying). We came near to being killed.

See (close/near) at hand at hand   n. , close/dear/near to somebody's heart at heart , be close to/near the mark at mark   n.

‘NEXT TO’

1 In or into a position right beside somebody / something: We sat next to each other.

2 Following in order or importance after somebody / something: Next to skiing my favourite sport is skating.

3 Almost: Charles knew next to nothing about farming. The horse came next to last (= the one before the last one) in the race.

4 In comparison with somebody / something: Next to her I felt like a fraud.

‘BESIDE’

1 Next to or at the side of sb/sth: He sat beside her all night. A mill beside a stream

2 Compared with sb/sth: My painting looks childish beside yours.

Prepositional Phrase

According to Henry Sweet, “Grammar is an art and science of language.” The lorry is going away from the city. I could not attend the party because of my illness. I along with my family have just visited the International Trade Fair, 2014. She is standing in front of our university for me. He came to Dhaka with a view to He went to Nilkhet in order to buy some books. I have no opinion regarding the matter. He is working in favour of me. On account of my illness, I could not go to university. In stead of helping, he harmed me. Sorrow will be healed in course of time. In spite of his honesty, he is not loved by all. He sacrificed his life for the sake of our country. In case of fire, call the Fire Brigade.

‘INSIDE’

(Also inside of especially in NAmE)

1 On or to the inner part of sth/sb; within sth/sb: Go inside the house. Inside the box was a gold watch. For years we had little knowledge of what life was like inside China. You'll feel better with a good meal inside you. (Figurative) Inside most of us is a small child screaming for attention.

2 In less than the amount of time mentioned: The job is unlikely to be finished inside (of) a year

‘OUTSIDE’

(Also outside of especially in NAmE)

1 On or to a place on the outside of sth: You can park your car outside our house.

2 Away from or not in a particular place: It's the biggest theme park outside the United States.  We live in a small village just outside Leeds.

3 Not part of sth: The matter is outside my area of responsibility.  You may do as you wish outside working hours.

4 Outside of apart from: There was nothing they could do, outside of hoping things would get better.

‘LIKE’

1 Similarity: Like her mother, she is beautiful too.

‘PAST’

1. Leaving behind: He is walking past the office. 

Dear Readers,

Please, never forget to comment and any correction or suggestion regarding my writing will be largely appreciated.

Md. Saiful Alam

B. A. Honours and M. A. in English

E-mail: suman64924@yahoo.com