Mastering Complex Prepositions: Definition, Usage, and Examples

Complex prepositions, also known as phrasal prepositions or multi-word prepositions, are combinations of two or more words that function as a single preposition. Instead of single words like ‘in,’ ‘on,’ or ‘at,’ these prepositions consist of phrases such as ‘in spite of,’ ‘because of,’ ‘according to,’ ‘on top of,’ ‘in addition to,’ and ‘with regard to.’ These combinations provide more nuanced and specific relationships between elements in a sentence. Understanding and correctly using complex prepositions enhances the precision and clarity of your writing and speech. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of complex prepositions, their structure, types, usage rules, common mistakes, and practice exercises to help you master this important aspect of English grammar.

Table of Contents

1. Definition of Complex Prepositions
2. Structural Breakdown of Complex Prepositions
3. Types and Categories of Complex Prepositions
4. Examples of Complex Prepositions
5. Usage Rules for Complex Prepositions
6. Common Mistakes with Complex Prepositions
7. Practice Exercises
8. Advanced Topics in Complex Prepositions
9. Frequently Asked Questions
10. Conclusion

Definition of Complex Prepositions

A complex preposition, also referred to as a phrasal preposition or a multi-word preposition, is a group of two or more words that function together as a single preposition. Unlike simple prepositions, such as at, in, on, to, and from, complex prepositions consist of combinations like in front of, as well as, in accordance with, on behalf of, and due to. These phrases express relationships between elements in a sentence more precisely than single-word prepositions. The primary role of a complex preposition is to connect a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase (the object of the preposition) to another part of the sentence, indicating relationships of location, time, direction, manner, cause, or purpose.

Complex prepositions enhance the expressiveness of English by allowing for more detailed and nuanced descriptions. They are essential for conveying complex ideas and relationships within sentences. Ignoring or misusing them can lead to ambiguity or misinterpretation. For instance, instead of simply saying “He acted for his friend,” you could say “He acted on behalf of his friend,” which gives a clearer sense of his role and motivation. Similarly, in spite of conveys a sense of contrast or unexpectedness that a simple preposition cannot.

Structural Breakdown of Complex Prepositions

Complex prepositions generally follow specific structural patterns. Understanding these patterns can help you identify and use them correctly. The most common structures include:

• Preposition + Noun + Preposition: This is perhaps the most common structure. Examples include: in front of, in the middle of, on top of, in spite of, and by means of.
• Preposition + Adjective + Noun + Preposition: This structure adds an adjective to further specify the relationship. An example is: in accordance with.
• Adverb + Preposition: This structure is less common but still important. Examples include: according to, owing to, due to.
• Conjunction + Preposition: This structure combines a conjunction with a preposition. An example is as well as.

Each part of the complex preposition contributes to its overall meaning. For example, in the phrase “in front of,” ‘in’ indicates location, ‘front’ specifies the area, and ‘of’ connects it to the object. Recognizing these components allows you to deconstruct and understand the meaning of less familiar complex prepositions.

The object of the complex preposition is the noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that follows the entire prepositional phrase. For instance, in the sentence “The cat is sleeping on top of the refrigerator,” the phrase “on top of” is the complex preposition, and “the refrigerator” is its object. The entire phrase “on top of the refrigerator” functions as an adverbial phrase modifying the verb “is sleeping.”

Types and Categories of Complex Prepositions

Complex prepositions can be categorized based on the types of relationships they express. Understanding these categories can help you choose the most appropriate preposition for a given context.

1. Location and Position

These prepositions indicate where something is located. Common examples include:

• In front of: Indicates something is ahead of another.
• Behind: Indicates something is at the rear.
• On top of: Indicates something is above another.
• In the middle of: Indicates something is surrounded by something else.
• Next to: Indicates something is beside another.
• Near to: Indicates something is close to another.

2. Time and Duration

These prepositions specify when something occurs or how long it lasts. Examples include:

• Prior to: Indicates something happens before another.
• Subsequent to: Indicates something happens after another.
• Up to: Indicates a limit or endpoint.
• As of: Indicates a specific date or time from which something starts.

3. Reason and Cause

These prepositions explain why something happens. Examples include:

• Because of: Indicates the reason for something.
• Due to: Indicates the cause of something.
• On account of: Similar to because of.
• By reason of: Indicates a formal reason.

4. Purpose and Intention

These prepositions describe the aim or goal of an action. Examples include:

• For the purpose of: Indicates the intention behind an action.
• With a view to: Indicates an aim or goal.

5. Manner and Means

These prepositions describe how something is done. Examples include:

• By means of: Indicates the method or tool used.
• In accordance with: Indicates compliance with rules or standards.

6. Exception and Contrast

These prepositions indicate something that is different or unexpected. Examples include:

• In spite of: Indicates something happens despite an obstacle.
• Regardless of: Indicates something happens without being affected by something else.

7. Addition and Inclusion

These prepositions add information or include something. Examples include:

• In addition to: Indicates something is added to something else.
• As well as: Similar to in addition to.

Examples of Complex Prepositions

The following tables provide numerous examples of complex prepositions used in sentences, categorized by their function. These examples illustrate how complex prepositions add detail and precision to your writing.

Table 1: Location and Position

This table contains 20 examples of complex prepositions expressing location and position.

Complex Preposition	Example Sentence
In front of	The car is parked in front of the house.
Behind	The garden is located behind the building.
On top of	The book is lying on top of the desk.
In the middle of	The island is in the middle of the lake.
Next to	The bank is next to the post office.
Near to	The school is near to the park.
Beside	He sat beside her during the concert.
Around	The children were playing around the tree.
Beneath	The treasure was buried beneath the old oak tree.
Underneath	The cat hid underneath the bed.
Inside of	There are cookies inside of the jar.
Outside of	The dog is waiting outside of the store.
Across from	The library is across from the museum.
Along with	He walked along with his dog in the park.
Away from	She moved away from the city to the countryside.
Close to	The airport is close to the city center.
Far from	The beach is far from our hotel.
Within	The documents are stored within the safe.
Opposite to	The café is opposite to the train station.
Adjacent to	The new building is adjacent to the old one.

Table 2: Time and Duration

This table contains 20 examples of complex prepositions expressing time and duration.

Complex Preposition	Example Sentence
Prior to	Prior to the meeting, please review the agenda.
Subsequent to	Subsequent to the storm, the roads were cleared.
Up to	You can borrow up to five books at a time.
As of	As of January 1st, the new policy will be in effect.
Until	We waited until the rain stopped.
From	The store is open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Since	He has been working here since 2010.
Throughout	The concert lasted throughout the evening.
During	During the summer, we go to the beach.
Within	Please respond within 24 hours.
Following	Following the presentation, there will be a Q&A session.
In advance of	Please book your tickets in advance of the show.
Ahead of	We need to finish the project ahead of the deadline.
Up until	Up until last year, she lived in New York.
As from	As from tomorrow, the new rules will apply.
Between	The negotiation will take place between Monday and Friday.
Over	We discussed the issue over several meetings.
Around	The event will start around 7 PM.
By the time	By the time we arrived, the movie had already started.
In the course of	In the course of the investigation, new evidence was found.

Table 3: Reason and Cause

This table contains 20 examples of complex prepositions expressing reason and cause.

Complex Preposition	Example Sentence
Because of	The game was canceled because of the rain.
Due to	The flight was delayed due to technical issues.
On account of	He couldn’t attend on account of his illness.
By reason of	The contract was terminated by reason of non-compliance.
As a result of	As a result of the accident, he was injured.
For the sake of	He did it for the sake of his family.
Owing to	Owing to the high demand, prices have increased.
Thanks to	Thanks to her help, we finished on time.
Attributable to	The fire was attributable to a faulty wire.
In consequence of	In consequence of his actions, he was dismissed.
Arising from	Problems arising from the new policy were discussed.
On the grounds of	The appeal was rejected on the grounds of insufficient evidence.
In view of	In view of the circumstances, we decided to postpone the event.
By virtue of	He was appointed by virtue of his experience.
As a consequence of	As a consequence of the decision, many jobs were lost.
By dint of	He succeeded by dint of hard work.
In deference to	In deference to her age, we gave her the seat.
For reason of	They were excused for reason of illness.
On the score of	He was rejected on the score of his qualifications.
In light of	In light of the new information, we need to reassess our strategy.

Table 4: Purpose and Intention

This table contains 20 examples of complex prepositions expressing purpose and intention.

Complex Preposition	Example Sentence
For the purpose of	He studied hard for the purpose of passing the exam.
With a view to	They invested with a view to expanding their business.
In order to	She exercised in order to stay healthy.
So as to	He arrived early so as to get a good seat.
With the intention of	He went there with the intention of meeting her.
For fear of	He didn’t speak for fear of offending anyone.
In hopes of	They searched in hopes of finding the lost dog.
Towards	All donations will go towards the charity.
With an eye to	The company is investing with an eye to the future.
On behalf of	I am writing on behalf of my client.
In aid of	The concert was held in aid of the victims.
To the end that	He worked hard to the end that his family would prosper.
For the benefit of	The law was enacted for the benefit of the citizens.
With the object of	The project was started with the object of improving efficiency.
In furtherance of	The research was conducted in furtherance of scientific knowledge.
For the advancement of	The funds were used for the advancement of education.
In pursuit of	He traveled the world in pursuit of adventure.
With the goal of	The team trained with the goal of winning the championship.
In anticipation of	They prepared in anticipation of a large crowd.
For the sake of	He gave up his career for the sake of his children.

Usage Rules for Complex Prepositions

Using complex prepositions correctly involves understanding their specific meanings and how they fit into sentence structure. Here are some key usage rules:

1. Correct Placement: Complex prepositions should be placed immediately before the noun, pronoun, or noun phrase they govern.
2. Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure that the subject and verb agree, even when a prepositional phrase is inserted between them.
3. Avoiding Redundancy: Be careful not to use complex prepositions redundantly. For example, avoid phrases like “in behind” or “on top above.”
4. Formal vs. Informal Usage: Some complex prepositions are more formal than others. Choose the appropriate preposition based on the context of your writing or speech.
5. Consistency: Maintain consistency in your usage of complex prepositions throughout a piece of writing.

Specific Considerations:

• When using complex prepositions of time, be precise. For instance, “prior to” is more formal and exact than “before.”
• When using complex prepositions of cause, understand the subtle differences between “because of,” “due to,” and “on account of.” “Due to” is often used when the cause is a noun, while “because of” can introduce a clause.
• Complex prepositions of purpose should be used to clearly state the intention behind an action.

Common Mistakes with Complex Prepositions

Several common mistakes can occur when using complex prepositions. Being aware of these errors can help you avoid them.

1. Incorrect Preposition Choice

Incorrect: He succeeded by means from hard work.

Correct: He succeeded by means of hard work.

Explanation: The correct complex preposition is “by means of,” not “by means from.”

2. Redundant Prepositions

Incorrect: The cat is on top above the table.

Correct: The cat is on top of the table.

Explanation: “On top above” is redundant. “On top of” is sufficient.

3. Misplaced Prepositional Phrases

Incorrect: Because of the rain, the game was canceled yesterday.

Correct: The game was canceled yesterday because of the rain.

Explanation: While both are grammatically correct, placing the prepositional phrase at the end often improves clarity.

4. Incorrect Use of “Due to” vs. “Because Of”

Incorrect: Due to it was raining, the game was canceled.

Correct: Because of the rain, the game was canceled.

Explanation: “Due to” should typically be followed by a noun or noun phrase, while “because of” can introduce a clause.

5. Wrong Word Order

Incorrect: In spite the fact of, he went to work.

Correct: In spite of the fact, he went to work.

Explanation: The correct order is “in spite of the fact.”

Table 5: Common Mistakes and Corrections

This table presents a series of common mistakes with complex prepositions, along with the correct versions and explanations.

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
He did it for sake of his children.	He did it for the sake of his children.	Missing “the” in the complex preposition.
According of the report, sales are up.	According to the report, sales are up.	Incorrect preposition.
The book is on the top of the shelf.	The book is on top of the shelf.	Extra “the” is unnecessary.
Infront of the building, there is a park.	In front of the building, there is a park.	“In front of” is three separate words.
He arrived prior from the meeting.	He arrived prior to the meeting.	Incorrect preposition.
She succeeded by dint from hard work.	She succeeded by dint of hard work.	Incorrect preposition.
They acted on the behalf of their client.	They acted on behalf of their client.	Missing “of” in the complex preposition.
The event was canceled because to the weather.	The event was canceled because of the weather.	Incorrect preposition.
The project was completed in accordance from the plan.	The project was completed in accordance with the plan.	Incorrect preposition.
Due to of the traffic, we were late.	Due to the traffic, we were late.	Extra “of” is unnecessary.

Practice Exercises

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

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences with the correct complex preposition from the options provided.

Question	Options	Answer
1. The meeting was postponed ______ the manager’s absence.	a) due to, b) in spite of, c) in addition to	a) due to
2. ______ his hard work, he failed the exam.	a) because of, b) in spite of, c) on account of	b) in spite of
3. He invested money ______ expanding his business.	a) with a view to, b) because of, c) in front of	a) with a view to
4. The store is located ______ the post office.	a) next to, b) in spite of, c) due to	a) next to
5. ______ the new regulations, we must change our procedures.	a) prior to, b) in accordance with, c) on top of	b) in accordance with
6. She completed the project ______ the deadline.	a) ahead of, b) because of, c) in spite of	a) ahead of
7. We are collecting donations ______ the local charity.	a) on behalf of, b) due to, c) next to	a) on behalf of
8. The event was successful ______ everyone’s efforts.	a) thanks to, b) in spite of, c) next to	a) thanks to
9. He couldn’t attend the party ______ his illness.	a) because of, b) in addition to, c) on top of	a) because of
10. She works hard ______ provide for her family.	a) in order to, b) next to, c) due to	a) in order to

Exercise 2: Error Correction

Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.

Question	Corrected Sentence
1. The cat is on the top of the table.	The cat is on top of the table.
2. According of the report, sales have increased.	According to the report, sales have increased.
3. Due to of the rain, the event was canceled.	Due to the rain, the event was canceled.
4. He succeeded by means from hard work.	He succeeded by means of hard work.
5. Infront of the store, there is a parking lot.	In front of the store, there is a parking lot.
6. The decision was made on the behalf of the committee.	The decision was made on behalf of the committee.
7. Prior from the meeting, please read the documents.	Prior to the meeting, please read the documents.
8. He did it for sake of his family.	He did it for the sake of his family.
9. The project was completed in accordance from the guidelines.	The project was completed in accordance with the guidelines.
10. Thanks of her help, we finished on time.	Thanks to her help, we finished on time.

Advanced Topics in Complex Prepositions

For advanced learners, understanding the nuances and subtleties of complex prepositions is crucial. This includes recognizing the subtle differences in meaning between similar prepositions and using them effectively in complex sentences.

Subtle Differences:

• Due to vs. Owing to vs. Because of: While all three indicate cause, “due to” is generally used when the cause is a noun, “owing to” is more formal, and “because of” can introduce a clause.
• In spite of vs. Despite: These are often interchangeable, but “in spite of” is slightly more emphatic.
• With a view to vs. With the aim of: Both indicate purpose, but “with a view to” suggests a longer-term goal.

Complex Sentence Structures:

Complex prepositions can be used to create sophisticated sentence structures that convey complex ideas. For example:

“In addition to his academic achievements, he excelled in sports.”

“Regardless of the challenges, she persevered and achieved her goals.”

“By virtue of his experience and expertise, he was appointed as the CEO.”

Frequently Asked Questions

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

   A simple preposition is a single word (e.g., in, on, at), while a complex preposition consists of two or more words functioning as a single preposition (e.g., in front of, because of). Complex prepositions provide more specific and nuanced relationships between elements in a sentence.

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

   No, the components of a complex preposition must remain together. Separating them changes the meaning and structure of the sentence.

3. Are complex prepositions always followed by a noun?

   Complex prepositions are followed by a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase, which serves as the object of the preposition. This object is essential for completing the meaning of the prepositional phrase.

4. How do I choose the correct complex preposition?

   Consider the relationship you want to express (location, time, cause, purpose, etc.) and choose the preposition that best fits the context. Pay attention to the subtle differences in meaning between similar prepositions.

5. Is it correct to end a sentence with a complex preposition?

   While it’s generally acceptable to end a sentence with a preposition in informal writing, it’s often considered more formal to rephrase the sentence to avoid this. However, sometimes ending with a preposition is the most natural and clear way to express the idea.

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

   Avoid using incorrect preposition choices, redundant prepositions, misplaced prepositional phrases, and incorrect word order. Double-check your sentences to ensure the complex prepositions are used accurately.

7. How can I improve my understanding of complex prepositions?

   Practice using complex prepositions in your writing and speaking. Read widely and pay attention to how complex prepositions are used in different contexts. Review grammar resources and complete practice exercises to reinforce your knowledge.

8. Are there any complex prepositions that are interchangeable?

   Some complex prepositions can be used interchangeably, but it’s important to understand the subtle differences in meaning. For example, “in spite of” and “despite” are often interchangeable, but “in spite of” can be slightly more emphatic.

Conclusion

Mastering complex prepositions is essential for achieving clarity and precision in English communication. By understanding their structure, types, and usage rules, you can enhance the quality and effectiveness of your writing and speaking. Remember to pay attention to the specific meanings of different complex prepositions, avoid common mistakes, and practice using them in various contexts. With consistent effort, you can confidently incorporate complex prepositions into your everyday language.

Continue to expand your vocabulary and grammar knowledge through regular reading and practice. Pay attention to how native speakers use complex prepositions in different contexts, and don’t hesitate to consult grammar resources when you’re unsure. By continuously refining your skills, you’ll become a more confident and proficient English communicator. The ability to use complex prepositions correctly will allow you to express more nuanced thoughts and ideas, making your communication more effective and engaging.