Understanding Adjectives and Their Prepositions
When it comes to English, some adjectives are closely linked with specific prepositions. Unfortunately, there aren’t strict rules governing which preposition pairs with which adjective, making it essential to learn them together. A helpful tip is to jot down new vocabulary in your notebook using complete sentences or phrases to reinforce your understanding.
While there are no hard-and-fast rules, certain patterns can guide you. Remember, a preposition is typically followed by a noun or a gerund (the -ing form of a verb). Let’s explore some common prepositions used with adjectives.
Using “At”
We often use “at” with adjectives that describe skills and abilities, such as good, bad, amazing, and terrible.
- Examples:
- He’s really good at English.
- She’s amazing at the piano.
- They’re terrible at organizing anything.
- I’m not very good at drawing.
Using “About”
The preposition “about” frequently accompanies adjectives that express feelings. This helps clarify what is causing a particular emotion.
- Examples:
- I’m angry about the decision.
- He’s nervous about the presentation.
- She’s excited about the new job.
- They were worried about the exam.
Using “Of”
Sometimes, we use “of” in conjunction with feelings.
- Examples:
- She was afraid of telling her mum.
- I’m frightened of having an accident.
- He’s scared of flying.
- You should be proud of your progress.
Using “To”
The preposition “to” helps indicate relationships between people or things, as well as someone’s behavior towards others.
- Examples:
- He’s married to the director.
- I’m addicted to my phone.
- I’m allergic to nuts.
- It’s similar to the old one.
In terms of behavior, “to” can describe how someone interacts with another person.
- Examples:
- They were really friendly to me.
- Was he nice to you?
- He is always polite to everyone.
- She was very rude to the waitress.
Other Useful Adjectives with Prepositions
Here are some additional adjectives and their common prepositions:
- With “for”:
- Exercise is good for you.
- Stress is bad for you.
- The town is famous for its cheese.
- I’m responsible for the financial side of the business.
- With “in”:
- She’s interested in the project.
- They want someone who’s experienced in design.
- I didn’t want to get involved in the argument.
Conclusion
Understanding how adjectives connect with prepositions can significantly enhance your language skills. By practicing these patterns, you’ll not only improve your grammar but also gain confidence in your English communication. Keep a journal of these phrases, and you’ll see your proficiency grow!