Prepositions: some common mistakes
Prepositions are words used to describe a relationship between other words in a sentence.
They are small words; still, they cause a great deal of confusion. In this lesson we will take a
look at some of the most common mistakes in the use of prepositions.
Since and for
These prepositions are often confused. Since is used to reckon from a particular date. For is
used for a period.
Incorrect: I am ill since three months.
Correct: I have been ill for three months.
Correct: I have been ill since May.
When since / for indicates time, the verb in the main clause should be in the present perfect
or past perfect tense.
Incorrect: This is my first time to play tennis since a long time.
Correct: I have not played tennis for a long time. / This is my first game of tennis for a long
time.
The adjectives inferior, superior, prior etc
The adjectives inferior, superior, senior, junior, prior etc. take the preposition to, not than.
Incorrect: She always felt inferior than her younger sister.
Correct: She always felt inferior to her younger sister.
Incorrect: This material is superior than that.
Correct: This material is superior to that.
The verbs resemble, enter, discuss, marry etc.
The verbs resemble, enter, discuss, lack, approach and marry are followed by direct objects
without prepositions.
Incorrect: This resembles to that.
Correct: This resembles that.
Incorrect: Your mother lacks of tact.
Correct: Your mother lacks tact.
Incorrect: We are now approaching to Victoria Terminus.
Correct: We are now approaching Victoria Terminus.
Incorrect: He reached to Singapore.
Correct: He reached Singapore.
Incorrect: She married to/with her boss.
Correct: She married her boss.