Compound Preposition Examples: A Comprehensive Guide

Compound prepositions are essential components of English grammar, adding depth and precision to our sentences. They function as single units, providing information about location, time, direction, and other relationships between elements in a sentence. Understanding compound prepositions is crucial for both native English speakers and learners, as they enhance clarity and fluency in communication. This guide aims to provide a thorough exploration of compound prepositions, covering their definition, structure, types, usage rules, common mistakes, and more. Whether you’re a student, writer, or language enthusiast, this article will equip you with the knowledge and skills to master compound prepositions.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Definition of Compound Prepositions
• Structural Breakdown
• Types of Compound Prepositions
• Examples of Compound Prepositions
• Usage Rules
• Common Mistakes
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Definition of Compound Prepositions

A compound preposition is a preposition that is formed by combining two or more words. These multi-word prepositions function as a single unit to indicate relationships between nouns, pronouns, and other parts of the sentence. Unlike simple prepositions (e.g., in, on, at), compound prepositions provide more specific and nuanced information about location, time, cause, purpose, or manner.

Compound prepositions are also sometimes called phrasal prepositions or complex prepositions. Regardless of the term used, the key characteristic is that they consist of multiple words acting together as a single prepositional unit. These units are crucial for adding detail and precision to your writing and speech.

Classification

Compound prepositions can be classified based on their structure and the types of words they combine. Common structures include:

• Preposition + Noun + Preposition: in front of, in the middle of, on top of
• Preposition + Adjective + Preposition: according to, close to, due to
• Adverb + Preposition: away from, out of, near to

Function

The primary function of a compound preposition is to connect a noun or pronoun (the object of the preposition) to the rest of the sentence. This connection provides information about various relationships, such as:

• Location: The book is next to the lamp.
• Time: The meeting is scheduled ahead of the conference.
• Direction: They drove away from the city.
• Cause: The accident happened because of the ice.
• Purpose: She studied hard in order to pass the exam.
• Manner: The task was completed in accordance with the guidelines.

Contexts

Compound prepositions are used in a wide range of contexts, including formal writing, informal conversation, and technical documentation. They are essential for expressing complex ideas and relationships with clarity and precision. For example, in academic writing, compound prepositions like in light of and with regard to are frequently used to introduce arguments and provide context. In everyday conversation, compound prepositions like because of and instead of are common for explaining reasons and making choices.

Structural Breakdown

Understanding the structure of compound prepositions involves recognizing the individual words that combine to form the prepositional unit and how they function together. Typically, a compound preposition consists of a combination of prepositions, nouns, adverbs, and adjectives. The arrangement and function of these words determine the meaning and usage of the compound preposition.

Preposition + Noun + Preposition

This is one of the most common structures for compound prepositions. The noun acts as a central element, while the prepositions provide context and relationship to other parts of the sentence.

Examples:

• in front of
• in the middle of
• on top of
• in back of
• in place of

In these examples, the first preposition (in, on) sets the general relationship, the noun (front, middle, top, back, place) specifies the location or position, and the second preposition (of) connects the entire phrase to the object of the preposition.

Preposition + Adjective + Preposition

In this structure, the adjective modifies the relationship established by the prepositions, adding further detail or condition.

Examples:

• according to
• close to
• due to
• next to
• subject to

Here, the adjective (according, close, due, next, subject) specifies the nature of the relationship between the object of the preposition and the rest of the sentence. For instance, according to indicates that something is being stated or done based on a particular source or authority.

Adverb + Preposition

This structure involves an adverb modifying the preposition, often indicating direction or distance.

Examples:

• away from
• out of
• near to
• apart from
• far from

The adverb (away, out, near, apart, far) modifies the preposition (from, to), providing information about the direction or extent of the relationship. For example, away from indicates movement or separation from a particular location or object.

Types of Compound Prepositions

Compound prepositions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they express. Common categories include prepositions of location, time, cause, purpose, and manner.

Prepositions of Location

These prepositions indicate the position or location of something in relation to another object or place.

Examples: in front of, behind, next to, on top of, in the middle of, around, near to, close to.

Prepositions of Time

These prepositions specify when something happens or the duration of an event.

Examples: ahead of, prior to, subsequent to, before, until, since, throughout.

Prepositions of Cause

These prepositions explain the reason or cause of an event or situation.

Examples: because of, due to, on account of, owing to, as a result of.

Prepositions of Purpose

These prepositions indicate the intention or purpose of an action.

Examples: in order to, so as to, with a view to, for the purpose of.

Prepositions of Manner

These prepositions describe how something is done or the way in which an action is performed.

Examples: in accordance with, in line with, in compliance with, in agreement with.

Examples of Compound Prepositions

The following tables provide a comprehensive list of compound preposition examples, categorized by their common usage. Each table includes several examples to illustrate the variety and context in which these prepositions are used.

Location Examples

These examples demonstrate how compound prepositions are used to describe spatial relationships.

Compound Preposition	Example Sentence
in front of	The car is parked in front of the house.
behind	The cat is hiding behind the sofa.
next to	The bank is located next to the post office.
on top of	The book is on top of the pile.
in the middle of	The island is in the middle of the lake.
around	The children are playing around the tree.
near to	His house is near to the school.
close to	The store is close to my apartment.
away from	Keep the chemicals away from children.
far from	Her hometown is far from the capital city.
inside of	There’s a gift inside of the box.
outside of	He works outside of the city center.
along with	She brought her friend along with her.
adjacent to	The park is adjacent to the museum.
opposite to	The library is opposite to the cafe.
beneath	The cat is sleeping beneath the table.
underneath	The treasure was buried underneath the old oak tree.
alongside	The boat is docked alongside the pier.
across from	The bakery is across from the bookstore.
within	The information is contained within this document.
throughout	The flowers are blooming throughout the garden.
in back of	The garage is in back of the house.
down from	The apartment is down from the hill.
up from	The store is up from the river.

Time Examples

These examples illustrate how compound prepositions are used to indicate specific times or periods.

Compound Preposition	Example Sentence
ahead of	The project was completed ahead of schedule.
prior to	Prior to the meeting, please review the agenda.
subsequent to	Subsequent to the investigation, new policies were implemented.
before	He arrived before the deadline.
until	We waited until the rain stopped.
since	They have been working here since 2010.
throughout	The company has grown throughout the year.
during	He fell asleep during the movie.
in between	The breaks are scheduled in between classes.
as of	As of today, the project is complete.
up to	Up to this point, everything is on track.
from	The store is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
within	The task must be completed within two weeks.
following	Following the presentation, there will be a Q&A session.
on	The meeting is on Monday.
at	The concert starts at 8 PM.
by	The report is due by Friday.
over	They discussed the issue over several days.
past	It happened past midnight.
around	The event will start around noon.
towards	He started working towards the end of the month.
after	She arrived after the party had started.

Cause Examples

The following table presents examples of compound prepositions that express the cause or reason for an action or event.

Compound Preposition	Example Sentence
because of	The game was canceled because of the rain.
due to	The delay was due to unforeseen circumstances.
on account of	He was absent on account of illness.
owing to	Owing to the traffic, we were late.
as a result of	As a result of the storm, many trees fell.
thanks to	Thanks to your help, we finished on time.
for	He was rewarded for his hard work.
by reason of	The contract was terminated by reason of non-compliance.
in view of	In view of the circumstances, we must take action.
on the grounds of	The decision was made on the grounds of safety concerns.
attributable to	The success is attributable to their dedication.
resulting from	The problems resulting from the changes were significant.
growing out of	The project growing out of the initial research phase.

Purpose Examples

These examples demonstrate how compound prepositions are used to express the intention or purpose behind an action.

Compound Preposition	Example Sentence
in order to	She studies hard in order to pass the exam.
so as to	He woke up early so as to catch the train.
with a view to	They invested with a view to expanding the business.
for the purpose of	The meeting was held for the purpose of discussing the budget.
in hopes of	He applied in hopes of getting the job.
with the intention of	She traveled with the intention of learning a new language.
to	He went to the store to buy milk.

Manner Examples

This table provides examples of compound prepositions that describe the way in which an action is performed.

Compound Preposition	Example Sentence
in accordance with	The project was completed in accordance with the guidelines.
in line with	The company’s policies are in line with industry standards.
in compliance with	The building was constructed in compliance with safety regulations.
in agreement with	The decision was made in agreement with all parties.
in keeping with	The decorations are in keeping with the theme.
consistent with	His actions are consistent with his beliefs.
in relation to	These findings are important in relation to the previous research.
by means of	They communicated by means of email.

Usage Rules

Using compound prepositions correctly involves understanding their specific meanings and the contexts in which they are appropriate. Here are some key rules to follow:

Correct Phrase Selection

Choose the compound preposition that accurately reflects the intended relationship between the object and the rest of the sentence. Consider the specific meaning you want to convey and select the preposition that best captures that meaning.

Example:

• Correct: The cat is in front of the door. (Location)
• Incorrect: The cat is because of the door. (Cause – incorrect context)

Avoid Redundancy

Be careful not to use compound prepositions in a way that creates redundancy or awkward phrasing. Ensure that the preposition adds meaningful information to the sentence.

Example:

• Correct: The meeting is scheduled ahead of the conference.
• Redundant: The meeting is scheduled ahead of before the conference.

Formal vs. Informal Usage

Some compound prepositions are more common in formal writing and speech, while others are more appropriate for informal contexts. Be mindful of your audience and the tone of your communication when choosing compound prepositions.

Example:

• Formal: The project was delayed owing to unforeseen circumstances.
• Informal: The project was delayed because of unforeseen circumstances.

Object of the Preposition

Ensure that the compound preposition is followed by a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that serves as the object of the preposition. This object completes the prepositional phrase and provides the necessary context for the relationship being expressed.

Example:

• Correct: The book is on top of the table. (table is the object)
• Incorrect: The book is on top of. (missing object)

Exceptions and Special Cases

While most compound prepositions follow standard grammatical rules, there are some exceptions and special cases to be aware of. These may involve idiomatic expressions, regional variations, or specific contexts where the preposition has a slightly different meaning.

Example:

• In spite of is often used to introduce a contrast or contradiction. In spite of the rain, we enjoyed the picnic.
• Regardless of indicates that something is not affected by a particular factor. Regardless of the cost, we will proceed with the project.

Common Mistakes

Several common mistakes can occur when using compound prepositions. Being aware of these errors can help you avoid them and improve the accuracy of your writing and speech.

Incorrect Preposition Choice

Using the wrong compound preposition can change the meaning of the sentence or make it nonsensical. Always double-check that the preposition accurately reflects the intended relationship.

Example:

• Incorrect: The meeting is behind of schedule.
• Correct: The meeting is ahead of schedule.

Omitting Necessary Words

Compound prepositions consist of multiple words that work together as a unit. Omitting any of these words can render the prepositional phrase incomplete or grammatically incorrect.

Example:

• Incorrect: The cat is in front the house.
• Correct: The cat is in front of the house.

Misusing ‘Of’

The preposition “of” is a common source of confusion. Ensure it is used correctly within compound prepositions and not omitted or added unnecessarily.

Example:

• Incorrect: The book is on top the table.
• Correct: The book is on top of the table.

Redundant Phrasing

Avoid using compound prepositions in a way that creates redundancy or unnecessary repetition. Choose the most concise and clear way to express the intended meaning.

Example:

• Redundant: He arrived prior to before the meeting.
• Correct: He arrived prior to the meeting.

Confusion with Adverbs

Some words can function as both adverbs and prepositions. Ensure that you are using the correct grammatical form based on the context of the sentence. Prepositions require an object (a noun or pronoun).

Example:

• Adverb: The dog ran away. (away modifies the verb ran)
• Preposition: The dog ran away from the house. (away from connects house to the verb)

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of compound prepositions with the following exercises. Choose the correct compound preposition to complete each sentence.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Choose the correct compound preposition from the options provided to complete each sentence.

Question	Options	Answer
1. The store is located _______ the bank and the post office.	a) next to, b) in between, c) on top of	b) in between
2. The project was completed _______ schedule.	a) ahead of, b) behind, c) due to	a) ahead of
3. The game was canceled _______ the rain.	a) because of, b) in spite of, c) according to	a) because of
4. She studies hard _______ pass the exam.	a) in order to, b) so that, c) with a view	a) in order to
5. The project was completed _______ the guidelines.	a) in accordance with, b) in spite of, c) due to	a) in accordance with
6. He was late _______ the traffic.	a) owing to, b) next to, c) in front of	a) owing to
7. The cat is hiding _______ the sofa.	a) behind, b) next to, c) in front of	a) behind
8. The treasure was buried _______ the old oak tree.	a) underneath, b) on top of, c) next to	a) underneath
9. _______ the presentation, there will be a Q&A session.	a) Following, b) Prior to, c) During	a) Following
10. His actions are _______ his beliefs.	a) consistent with, b) due to, c) next to	a) consistent with

Exercise 2: Error Correction

Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences involving compound prepositions.

Question	Corrected Sentence
1. The book is on top the table.	The book is on top of the table.
2. He arrived prior to before the meeting.	He arrived prior to the meeting.
3. The game was canceled due to of the rain.	The game was canceled due to the rain.
4. She studies hard in order pass the exam.	She studies hard in order to pass the exam.
5. The cat is in front the house.	The cat is in front of the house.
6. The success is attribute to their hard work.	The success is attributable to their hard work.
7. We will proceed regardless the cost.	We will proceed regardless of the cost.
8. The project was complete in accordance the guidelines.	The project was completed in accordance with the guidelines.
9. He went to the store for the purpose buy milk.	He went to the store for the purpose of buying milk.
10. The delay due to unforeseen circumstances.	The delay was due to unforeseen circumstances.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, exploring the nuances of compound prepositions can further refine their understanding and usage.

Idiomatic Expressions

Some compound prepositions are part of idiomatic expressions, where the meaning of the phrase is not immediately obvious from the individual words. These expressions often have a figurative or metaphorical meaning and require specific knowledge of their usage.

Example:

• In light of (considering): In light of the new evidence, we need to reconsider our position.
• With regard to (concerning): With regard to your inquiry, we will respond within 24 hours.

Regional Variations

In some cases, the usage of compound prepositions can vary by region or dialect. Be aware of these variations and adapt your language accordingly based on your audience and context.

Example:

• In some dialects, outside of may be used interchangeably with outside, while in others, it may have a slightly different connotation.

Formal and Technical Writing

In formal and technical writing, the precise use of compound prepositions is crucial for clarity and accuracy. Pay close attention to the specific meaning and context of each preposition to ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and unambiguous.

Example:

• In legal documents, compound prepositions like pursuant to and in accordance with are frequently used to specify compliance with laws and regulations.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about compound prepositions:

1. What is the difference between a simple preposition and a compound preposition?

   A simple preposition consists of a single word (e.g., in, on, at), while a compound preposition is formed by combining two or more words (e.g., in front of, because of). Compound prepositions often provide more specific and nuanced information.

2. Can a compound preposition be separated by other words?

   Generally, no. The words in a compound preposition must stay together as a unit to maintain the correct meaning and grammatical structure. Separating them can lead to confusion or incorrect sentences.

3. Are compound prepositions always followed by a noun or pronoun?

   Yes, compound prepositions are always followed by a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that serves as the object of the preposition. This object completes the prepositional phrase.

4. How can I improve my understanding of compound prepositions?

   Practice using them in your writing and speech, read widely to observe how they are used in different contexts, and pay attention to feedback from teachers or native speakers.

5. Is it okay to use compound prepositions in informal writing?

   Yes, many compound prepositions are perfectly acceptable in informal writing and conversation. However, some may be more formal and better suited for academic or professional contexts.

6. What are some common mistakes to avoid when using compound prepositions?

   Common mistakes include using the wrong preposition, omitting necessary words, misusing “of”, and creating redundant phrasing. Review the “Common Mistakes” section for more details.

7. How do I identify a compound preposition in a sentence?

   Look for multi-word phrases that connect a noun or pronoun to the rest of the sentence, indicating relationships such as location, time, cause, or manner. If the phrase acts as a single prepositional unit, it is likely a compound preposition.

8. Are there any compound prepositions that are interchangeable?

   In some cases, certain compound prepositions may be used interchangeably, but it’s essential to consider the specific context and nuance. For example, because of and due to can often be used synonymously, but owing to might be more appropriate in formal writing.

Conclusion

Mastering compound prepositions is essential for achieving clarity and precision in English communication. By understanding their definition, structure, types, usage rules, and common mistakes, you can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills. Compound prepositions allow for more nuanced expressions of relationships between elements in a sentence, enriching your ability to convey complex ideas effectively.

Continue to practice using compound prepositions in various contexts, and pay attention to how they are used by native speakers and writers. By doing so, you will develop a strong command of these valuable grammatical tools. Remember that language learning is an ongoing process, and consistent effort will lead to greater fluency and confidence in your English proficiency.