Prepositions
When writing, it’s important to keep moving–and bring the reader along. Two aspects of writing that often present challenges are transitioning between ideas and introducing evidence. Too little explanation leaves the reader lost; too many words (aka “beating around the bush”), leave the reader impatient.
Prepositions, used in conjunction with verbs, nouns and adjectives, can provide a succinct way to navigate transitions and introduce evidence. Below are some examples to keep handy. For success applying these ideas, try to diversify the prepositions used throughout an essay. Remember: repetition (even of prepositions) disrupts flow–variety enriches it.
Verb+Preposition
Agree With
Although most historians now agree with this view, X disagrees, saying: “…”
Introduce To
- Augustine introduced us to the idea that free will…
Look At
Before concluding this theory is true, it’s important to look at the facts:...
Depend On
A culturally relevant approach depends on…
Noun+Preposition
Example of
One example of an advertising tactic brands deploy through social media is…
Cause Of
While the cause of this phenomenon is not entirely clear, evidence indicates…
Center Of
At the center of this philosophical debate is the idea that…
Source Of
One source of inspiration for this movement was…
Preposition + Noun
In Time
In time, scientists have come to understand…
In General
In general, as they steer out of the pandemic, businesses are focused on…
Adjective+Preposition
Known For
One economist who is known for this theory is X, who sums it up this way, “...”
Dedicated To
Since we are dedicated to anti-racism, we must examine…
Far From
Far from sticking to the novel’s timeline, the film adaptation…
Responsible For
The policies of the Regan era are responsible for…
Idioms With Prepositions
Before jumping to a conclusion, further evidence must be examined. For example,...
An artistic practice that is on the cutting edge is….
For ages, vaccines have been…Now…
Currently, a state of the art approach to filmmaking involves…