Grammar Worksheet — Intro
Dependent Prepositions
Explanation
Many adjectives, nouns, and verbs are followed by particular prepositions.
These patterns are often fixed and must be learned as chunks: susceptible to, intent on, capable of, attributed to.
At C1 level, accuracy with dependent prepositions helps formal writing sound natural and precise.
Form
| Use | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Core form | Adjective + preposition | The system is vulnerable to attack. |
| Variation | Noun + preposition | There is a demand for greater transparency. |
| Advanced form | Verb + object + preposition | They attributed the error to poor communication. |
Use to after vulnerable, susceptible, accustomed, and committed.
Use of after capable, aware, critical, and regardless; use for after responsible and demand.
Examples
- The system is vulnerable to attack.
- The findings are consistent with earlier research.
- There is a demand for greater transparency.
- They attributed the error to poor communication.
- The committee is responsible for oversight.
- She is intent on completing the project.
- The policy is aimed at reducing waste.
- The results are indicative of a wider problem.
Common Mistakes
- The system is vulnerable for attack. → The system is vulnerable to attack. Use vulnerable to.
- The findings are consistent to earlier research. → The findings are consistent with earlier research. Use consistent with.
- They attributed the error on poor communication. → They attributed the error to poor communication. Use attribute something to something.
- The committee is responsible of oversight. → The committee is responsible for oversight. Use responsible for.