What Are Prepositions After Adjectives?
In English, many adjectives are followed by specific prepositions. These combinations must be learned as fixed phrases because there are no clear rules about which preposition follows which adjective.
Using the correct preposition after an adjective is essential for accurate and natural English.
Adjectives Followed by OF
Examples:
1- She is afraid of spiders.
2- He is aware of the problem.
3- She is capable of doing better.
4- He is very fond of classical music.
5- They are proud of their daughter.
6- I am tired of waiting.
7- He was found guilty of the crime.
8- She is jealous of her sister.
Adjectives Followed by AT
Examples:
1- She is very good at mathematics.
2- He is bad at spelling.
3- I was surprised at the results.
4- They were shocked at the news.
5- We were amazed at his performance.
6- She is terrible at cooking.
Adjectives Followed by IN
Examples:
1- She is interested in photography.
2- He is involved in the project.
3- She is very experienced in teaching.
4- They were successful in their mission.
5- He is fluent in three languages.
6- She is skilled in graphic design.
Adjectives Followed by FOR
Examples:
1- She is responsible for the project.
2- He is famous for his cooking.
3- I am grateful for your help.
4- This medicine is good for headaches.
5- She is ready for the exam.
6- He is known for his kindness.
Adjectives Followed by WITH
Examples:
1- I am satisfied with the results.
2- He is angry with his colleague.
3- She is bored with her job.
4- They are pleased with the outcome.
5- I am familiar with this topic.
6- She is disappointed with the service.
Common Mistakes
Good In Instead of Good At
Incorrect: She is good in mathematics.
Correct: She is good at mathematics.
Afraid From Instead of Afraid Of
Incorrect: He is afraid from dogs.
Correct: He is afraid of dogs.
Interested At Instead of Interested In
Incorrect: I am interested at history.
Correct: I am interested in history.
Angry At Instead of Angry With
Incorrect: She is angry at her friend.
Correct: She is angry with her friend.
Memory Tips
Afraid, aware, capable, fond, proud, tired, guilty = OF
Good, bad, surprised, shocked, amazed = AT
Interested, involved, experienced, successful = IN
Responsible, famous, grateful, ready = FOR
Satisfied, angry, bored, pleased, familiar = WITH
Conclusion
1- Many adjectives in English are always followed by a specific preposition.
2- Common adjectives with of include afraid, proud, and capable.
3- Common adjectives with at include good, bad, and surprised.
4- Common adjectives with in include interested, involved, and experienced.
5- Learning these combinations as fixed phrases is the best way to remember them.
Mastering prepositions after adjectives will make your English more accurate and natural.