Summary
In-depth Explanation
How to Use Compound Prepositions
Compound prepositions can go at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence and are followed by the noun, pronoun or noun phrase that are modifying. For example:
I went to the store because of the sale.
Here, the compound preposition (because of) comes before the noun it is modifying (the sale). Here is another example:
According to the report, sales have increased.
In this sentence, the compound preposition (according to) again comes before a noun (the report), this time at the beginning of the sentence.
Common Compound Prepositions
Here are some frequently used compound prepositions and examples of how to use them in sentences:
|
Compound Preposition |
Meaning |
Example |
|
according to |
Based on what someone says or a specific source. |
According to the teacher, the test will be next week. |
|
in front of |
Positioned ahead of something; facing. |
There is a large tree in front of the house. |
|
because of |
For this reason; explains why something happens. |
They canceled the game because of the rain. |
|
due to |
Caused by; another (more formal) way to say “because of.” |
The delay was due to traffic. |
|
on behalf of |
Representing someone else; acting for someone (somewhat formal). |
She accepted the award on behalf of the entire team. |
|
in addition to |
Along with or besides something else. |
In addition to a new computer, she also bought a printer. |
|
instead of |
In place of something else; as a substitute. |
We went to the beach instead of the park. |
|
as of |
Starting from a specific time or date. |
As of next month, classes will start earlier. |
|
in spite of |
Despite; even though something is a challenge or opposite (formal). |
They had a picnic in spite of the cold weather. |
|
aside from |
Apart from or except for something. |
Aside from the rain, it was a nice trip. |
|
next to |
Beside or very close to something. |
My seat is next to the window. |
|
out of |
Moving from the inside to outside; or no longer having something. |
He took the money out of his wallet. We’re out of milk. Could you buy more? |
|
with regard to |
Related to or about something specific (formal). |
With regard to your question, I will find an answer. |