Intermediate English Grammar for ESL Learners - Robin Torres-Gouzerh 2016
Compound prepositions
19 Prepositions
Prepositional phrases are formed using a preposition and its object (a noun or a pronoun). Prepositional phrases describe the relationship between the object of the preposition and another element of a sentence. In general, prepositional phrases describe relationships of place, time, and ownership.
The dog is hiding under the car.
They only rented that apartment for a month.
The back door of my house is painted blue.
Following is a list of commonly used prepositions.
Compound prepositions
A compound preposition functions as a single preposition, but is composed of more than one word. Just like other prepositions, a compound preposition is followed by a noun or pronoun object.
Following is a list of common compound prepositions.
They solved the problem by means of a special algorithm.
In case of fire, do not use the elevators.
In spite of his hard work, the promotion went to Jane Anderson.
He ran out of the haunted house.
Whether simple or compound, prepositions function the same in sentences.
The preposition between expresses a choice involving two people or things, while the preposition among expresses a choice involving more than two people or things.
She had to choose between going out or watching a movie at home.
There is an enormous difference between love and hate.
Just between you and me, I’d really like to go out with Juan’s sister.
The mood among the guests was quite festive. I have always counted you among my friends.
Among the men in his squadron was a lad of only 19. Exercise 19.1 In each sentence, underline the preposition(s), including compound prepositions, and their noun objects.
1. He would prefer a hybrid car instead of the truck.
2. If they are still swimming in the pool, then they will be late for dinner.
3. The clouds floated high above the hills.
4. Tell me about the book you read.
5. George ran into the room and quickly took a seat next to Helen.
6. Is she the one you spoke of?
7. I recently got a letter from him while he was away in Iraq.
8. Contrary to public opinion, the election is not a foregone conclusion.
9. Sitting among the students was a professor from the philosophy department.
10. Are you satisfied with this table? I can get you another by the window.
Exercise 19.2 Complete each sentence with an appropriate object for each preposition.
Example They had an argument with their new neighbor.
1. She spent a lot of time alone in ... .
2. They had to borrow some furniture from ... .
3. I must choose between ... .
4. We cannot leave before ..., but we’ll arrive there around ... .
5. Does she know the way to ...?
6. In spite of ..., they set out on the mountain hike.
7. In light of ..., I feel you should retake the course.
8. Among ..., he saw many old friends.
9. I’ve always been interested in ... .
10. Because of ..., the game had to be canceled.