Preposition Rules to Know (Grammar, Examples, More)

What are the preposition grammar rules to remember? A noun, pronoun, or phrase can be connected to other words in a sentence by the use of a term called a preposition. Prepositions can also be used to connect phrases.

What do prepositions do?

Prepositions play the role of connecting the subjects, things, times, and places that are mentioned in a phrase.

On, at, to, with, and for are examples of some of the most often-used prepositions. There is a great deal more of them, and some of them could look confusing.

On the other hand, they are a typical component of language, and most of us utilize them in a natural manner without even putting any thought into it.

What are the guidelines for using prepositions in sentences?

Rule 1

It is essential to have an accompanying object when using a preposition.

There is no such thing as a preposition unless it is used in conjunction with a relevant word or pronoun that serves as the preposition’s object.

If there is no object following a preposition, then the phrase in question is an adverb, which by definition never has an object.

Here are some illustrations to assist you to get a better grasp on the concept:

• Sam is in his computer class.

The word “computer” functions as the object of the preposition “in” in this phrase.

• James reached the venue before Selena.

In this context, the preposition “before” is being used with Selena as the object.

• My husband will take me for dinner after his meeting.

In this instance, the object of the preposition “after” is meeting.

Rule 2

Be sure to pick the appropriate preposition in every situation.

Prepositions are used to show the location, position, or direction of a noun.

But because the many kinds of prepositions each perform a unique role, check that the preposition being used says exactly what is intended of it.

Here are a few instances:

• James and Charlie walked in the room.

The preposition “in” indicates the location of anything in this phrase. As James and Charlie entered the room, the door was opened.

• James and Charlie walked into the room.

The preposition “into” indicates movement or direction in this phrase. James and Charlie are the ones that walked into the room.

Rule 3

Be sure to use the appropriate prepositions and verbs in pairings.

Phrasal verbs, which combine the functions of a verb with a preposition, are often used in written and spoken English.

However, in order for them to make sense, the appropriate preposition must be used in conjunction with the primary verb.

Here are a few instances –

• James should listen to Charlie.
• Mary should clean up the room.
• James will look after his sister.

Rule 4

At the conclusion of the sentences, do not use any prepositions.

When writing in a more informal style, conclude a sentence with a preposition. However, do not follow this when writing in a more official style.

Why? This is due to the fact that prepositions ought to be accompanied by an object at all times.

When a preposition comes at the conclusion of a sentence, the sentence will not have an object to which it refers.

Here are a few instances –

• The shelf is where James put his Xbox on.
• James asked if he could turn in his assignment after.

In the majority of situations, the phrase may be rewritten so that it does not finish with a preposition. The meaning can be made more clear by adding an object to the preposition.

Instances:

• The shelf is where James put his Xbox.
• James asked if he could turn in his assignment after his break.

Rule 5

After prepositions, always use object pronouns.

Avoid using a noun more than once in a phrase by using pronouns. However, when subject pronouns are used after a preposition, the grammatical structure of these sentences is flawed.

Incorrect sentences:

• The matter is between Charles and I.
• Did Selena talk to they?
• James hosted the event with who?

When something is acting as the object of a preposition, use object pronouns to refer to it.

Correct sentences:

• The matter is between Charles and me.
• Did Selena talk to them?
• James hosted the event with whom?

Sources:

1. Prepositions
2. Preposition
3. What Are Prepositions? (with Examples)
4. 6 Rules for Prepositions: Using Them Correctly
5. How to Use Prepositions Correctly?