Prepositional phrases

Prepositional phrases

A prepositional phrase is made up of a preposition and a noun phrase. Examples are: in the corner, on the roof, under the bed and within seconds.

A prepositional phrase has several uses. For example, it can be used as an adverbial of time and place.

• The work was completed in a few days.
• She wrote the essay in twenty minutes.
• I went to the market.
• There is something under the bed.
• The old man sat in a corner.

A prepositional phrase can be a post-modifier in a noun clause.

• Her son is that boy in the red shirt.
• We are looking for a house with a large garden.
• She has bought a new laptop with a 17 inch display.

The prepositional phrase can be used to say who did something.

• The farmer was bit by the snake.
• The spider was killed by the boy.
• She owns a wonderful painting by Picasso.

Prepositional phrases are used with verbs that take two objects. Examples are: give and get.

• He gave some money to the beggar on the corner.
• I have ordered a dress for my sister.
• He distributed chocolates among the children.

Prepositional phrases are also used after certain verbs, nouns and adjectives.

• The house that we live in belongs to my grandfather.
• I had a word with my boss.
• I felt sorry for her.
• I had an argument with my friend.

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