Dependent prepositions
Definition
A dependent preposition is the preposition conventionally used after a particular adjective, noun or verb. The combination has to be learned as a unit, such as interested in, reason for or depend on.
Examples
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She is interested in architecture.
The adjective interested conventionally takes in.
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There is no reason for the delay.
The noun reason is followed here by for.
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The result depends on the weather.
The verb depend normally takes on.
Dependent preposition vs. free place or time preposition
They arrived at the station.
At locates the arrival.
They apologized for the delay.
For is selected by the verb apologize.
A free preposition expresses a relationship such as place or time. A dependent preposition is largely determined by the word that comes before it.
A different preposition can change the meaning
Some words allow more than one preposition, but each combination carries a distinct relationship or meaning.
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I agree with Maya about the schedule.
Agree with identifies the person whose view is shared.
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We agreed on a new schedule.
Agree on identifies the matter that was decided.
Common mistakes
He is responsible of the budget.
He is responsible for the budget.
The standard combination is responsible for.
It depends of the price.
It depends on the price.
The standard combination is depend on.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which adjective-preposition combination is correct?
The conventional combination is afraid of.Which verb-preposition combination is correct?
The verb listen takes to before its object.Which sentence correctly distinguishes the person from the topic?
Agree with introduces the person; about introduces the topic.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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