When it comes to speaking or writing in English, you can’t leave out the object of a preposition. It is because they are very important to help you form a complete and clear sentence. Therefore, understanding them fully will definitely show your skills as a seasoned English user.
Object of a Preposition: What Is It?
What is the meaning of the object of a preposition? During your lesson, it is most likely that you are already familiar with it, despite not knowing what it’s called.
However, before diving into the detailed definition of the object of a preposition, let’s refresh your memory. What is a preposition?
A preposition is a word you use to connect a noun or pronoun with the object of the sentence. There are hundreds of prepositions in the English language, just as there are thousands of nouns.
Let’s take a look at this example:
The book is under the table.
‘Under’ is one of the prepositions. In that sentence, it shows the location of the book.
According to that example, what is the definition of ‘object of a preposition’?
The object of prepositions shows the word or phrase the preposition refers to. Therefore, in that example, ‘the table’ is the object of the preposition.
The object of the preposition is an easy concept to grasp. However, you can also use this formula for easier memorization;
Subject + Verb + Preposition + Object of The Preposition |
What is Considered an Object of Preposition?
There are various kinds of objects that can be considered an object of a preposition. Here are all of them, along with examples;
Underlined: Preposition Bold: Object of Preposition |
1. Nouns
Using a noun as an object of preposition is the basic formula of the topic. For example:
- I am going to the zoo next Sunday.
- You are going on vacation tomorrow, and I will be here waiting for you to return.
2. Noun Phrases
Aside from the usual noun, noun phrases can also be an object of preposition. Here’s how to use it correctly:
- “As Long As The Lemon Trees Grow” is a novel about a couple’s feelings amidst the war.
- She is looking for the man who claims to be her real father.
3. Noun Clauses
A noun clause or subordinate clause can act like an object of preposition, too. Take a look at these examples:
- A dollar is taken from whoever is not washing their dishes today.
- I can’t stop thinking of what she said the other night. It’s hurtful.
4. Pronouns
You can also use pronouns as the object of prepositions. Some of the examples are:
- I gave my laptop to him because I don’t like older models.
- Listen to yourself! You are not even sure of what you just said!
5. Gerunds
Gerund is a verb that acts as a noun. To identify them, just remember that it’s usually end in -ing. For example;
- For those who are dieting, fruits are necessary before eating dinner.
- Despite partying all weekend, I just don’t feel happier.
Rules to Remember
How do you remember objects of a preposition easily? There are some rules you could always put at heart:
- The objects of prepositions are only nouns or pronouns despite being written in phrases, clauses, or gerunds. Therefore, other speech elements such as adverbs, verbs, or adjectives is not an object of preposition.
- Since it refers to nouns or pronouns, it is always pointed to a place, a thing, or a person. Using abstract concepts such as “sadness” is not a correct definition of an object of preposition.
As stated above, there are hundreds of prepositions and even more of the objects that you can pair with. If you want to know more about this topic, you can rely on us in the Fun English Course.
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Not only will you understand the object of a preposition, but you will also understand another form of grammar. Call us up, and let us show you how it’s worth your time.