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. |