Prepositions used to introduce objects
Prepositions are sometimes used to introduce objects. A few English verbs are normally
followed by a direct object without a preposition. Common examples are: discuss, enter,
reach, marry, resemble etc. However, many English verbs take a preposition before the
object.
Common verbs that are followed by at + object are: glance, look, laugh, smile, stare, rejoice
etc.
She smiled at me. (NOT She smiled me.)
Don’t laugh at the beggars. (NOT Don’t laugh the beggars.)
The pretty girl glanced at her reflection.
Why are you staring at me?
Look at that.
Notes
When look is not followed by a direct object, it does not take the preposition at.
Look. (NOT Look at.)
Look at that car. (NOT Look that car.)
With mirror, we use the preposition in, not at.
She looked in the mirror.
Verbs that take the preposition of
The verbs approve, consist, die and smell are usually followed by the preposition of.
He didn’t approve of the plan.
His dad became really angry when he came home smelling of alcohol.
Lunch consisted of chicken soup and salad.
Several people died of flu.
The verb remind is followed by indirect object + of + direct object.
She reminds me of her mother.
The verbs dream and think can be followed by of or about.
I am thinking of my holidays in the Swiss Alps.
I am thinking of inviting her to my party.
Note that when we put a verb form after think or dream, it should be in the –ing form.
I often dreamed of being rich when I was younger.
Verb + for + object
The following verbs take the preposition for: call, hope, look, wait, watch, wish etc.
I hope for a raise this year.
I am looking for the keys.
I waited for her for several hours.
To watch for something is to pay attention so that you will see it when it arrives or becomes
visible.
Watch for the birds. They will eat the grains.
If you wish for a promotion, you have to impress the manager.