Compound Prepositions – English Grammar

Compound prepositions are formed by combining a preposition with another word, typically an adverb, noun, or adjective. They function similarly to single-word prepositions and serve to establish relationships between elements within a sentence. Here’s an overview of compound prepositions along with five examples for each:

  1. According to:
    • Indicates conformity or agreement with something.
    • Examples:
      1. “According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.”
      2. “The decision was made according to company policy.”
      3. “According to tradition, we celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks.”
      4. “The report was written according to the instructions provided.”
      5. “The plan was executed according to the timeline.”
  2. Because of:
    • Indicates the reason or cause for something.
    • Examples:
      1. “The game was canceled because of the rain.”
      2. “He missed the meeting because of traffic.”
      3. “They were late because of the delay.”
      4. “She succeeded because of her hard work.”
      5. “The flight was delayed because of mechanical issues.”
  3. In front of:
    • Indicates the location ahead or before something.
    • Examples:
      1. “The car parked in front of the building.”
      2. “She stood in front of the mirror.”
      3. “They sat in front of the fireplace.”
      4. “The children played in front of the house.”
      5. “He placed the sign in front of the store.”
  4. On top of:
    • Indicates being positioned above something.
    • Examples:
      1. “The keys are on top of the table.”
      2. “The cat is sleeping on top of the bookshelf.”
      3. “He placed the hat on top of his head.”
      4. “The cake has icing on top of it.”
      5. “The painting hangs on top of the fireplace.”
  5. In addition to:
    • Indicates the inclusion of something extra.
    • Examples:
      1. “In addition to his salary, he receives bonuses.”
      2. “She bought a new dress in addition to shoes.”
      3. “In addition to the main course, there will be dessert.”
      4. “He takes vitamins in addition to exercising regularly.”
      5. “They offer free shipping in addition to discounts.”

Compound prepositions offer nuanced ways to convey relationships and enhance the clarity and precision of language.

Related Articles: Essential English Grammar Course for Students

Share this:

Leave a Comment