Preposition phrases

A preposition phrase has a preposition as its Head word, usually followed by a noun phrase. Here are some examples of preposition phrases, showing a preposition + noun phrase sequence:

  • in + boxes
  • in + the boxes
  • in + the big boxes under the table

The noun phrase can be a single word or a string of words, as the examples show.

Here are some examples of prepositional phrases in sentences:

  • But they live [under the sea] you know. [S1A-055 #225]
  • The British obsession [with class] is quite remarkable. [S2B-035 #83]
  • [After much consideration] we regret that we are unable to offer you the post [on this occasion]. [W1B-019 #74]
  • [[In the 69th minute] Wallace broke clear [in the Liverpool half] and raced [towards the penalty area]. [W2C-004 #40]

In some examples, we find complex prepositions made up of more than one word, like because of, on top of,  instead of:

  • Nobody could hear us [because of the noise]. [S1B-046 #32]
  • Catherine placed her aunt's left hand [on top of the right]. [W2F-010 #62]
  • We use the lift [instead of the stairs]. [W2B-022 #11]

Note that 'preposition phrase' is not a statutory term in the National Curriculum, i.e. it does not have to be taught at KS1 and KS2.

Welcome!

Englicious is totally free for everyone to use!

But in exchange, we ask that you register for an account on our site.

If you’ve already registered, you can log in straight away.

Since this is your first visit today, you can see this page by clicking the button below.

CLOSE

Englicious (C) Survey of English Usage, UCL, 2012-21 | Supported by the AHRC and EPSRC. | Privacy | Cookies