What Are Prepositional Phrases?
A prepositional phrase is a group of words that begins with a preposition and ends with a noun, pronoun, or gerund. Advanced prepositional phrases are commonly used in formal writing, academic English, and professional communication.
Learning these phrases will significantly improve your English fluency and make your writing sound more professional.
Prepositional Phrases with IN
These phrases with in are commonly used in formal and academic writing.
Examples:
1- In addition to his studies, he works part-time.
2- In spite of the bad weather, the event continued.
3- In terms of quality, this product is excellent.
4- In accordance with company policy, all staff must sign in.
5- In relation to your question, I would like to explain.
6- In contrast to last year, sales have improved significantly.
7- In view of the situation, we decided to postpone the meeting.
Prepositional Phrases with ON
Examples:
1- On behalf of the team, I would like to thank you.
2- On account of the heavy rain, the match was cancelled.
3- On the basis of the evidence, we made our decision.
4- On the contrary, the results were very positive.
5- On the whole, the project was a great success.
Prepositional Phrases with AT
Examples:
1- At the expense of his health, he finished the project.
2- At the request of the manager, we stayed late.
3- At first glance, the problem seems simple.
4- At all costs, we must protect our reputation.
5- At this rate, we will never finish on time.
Prepositional Phrases with BY and FOR
By
1- By means of technology, we can communicate instantly.
2- By virtue of his experience, he was given the job.
3- By way of introduction, let me tell you about myself.
4- By the time she arrived, everyone had left.
For
1- For the sake of peace, she agreed to compromise.
2- For the purpose of this exercise, please work in pairs.
3- For the benefit of everyone, let me explain the rules.
4- For the time being, please use the side entrance.
Common Mistakes
In Behalf Instead of On Behalf
Incorrect: He did it in behalf of the team.
Correct: He did it on behalf of the team.
In Spite Without Of
Incorrect: She succeeded in spite the difficulties.
Correct: She succeeded in spite of the difficulties.
By Means Without Of
Incorrect: We met by means communication.
Correct: We met by means of communication.
Memory Tips
In addition to = also, plus something extra
In spite of = despite, regardless of
On behalf of = representing someone
By means of = using a method or tool
For the sake of = because of a reason or purpose
Conclusion
1- Advanced prepositional phrases are used in formal and academic writing.
2- Phrases with in include in addition to, in spite of, and in terms of.
3- Phrases with on include on behalf of, on account of, and on the basis of.
4- Phrases with by include by means of and by virtue of.
5- Learning these phrases will make your English more professional and natural.
Mastering advanced prepositional phrases will greatly improve your formal writing and communication skills.