00 / Other
Verb + preposition
Certain verbs require a specific preposition to connect to an object. These combinations must be learned as fixed pairs to ensure grammatical accuracy.
A2Elementary
01 / Overview
In English, many common verbs cannot take a direct object. Instead, they use a preposition to link the action to the person or thing involved. The choice of preposition is usually fixed and does not always follow a logical rule, so these pairs should be memorized together.
02 / Structure
Subject + Verb + Preposition + Object
The preposition always follows the verb directly. If there is an object, it comes after the preposition. If you use another verb after the preposition, it must be in the -ing form.
03 / Common Verb + Preposition Pairs
04 / Common mistakes
I listened the radio this morning.
I listened to the radio this morning.
The verb 'listen' is intransitive and requires 'to' before an object.
It depends of the weather.
It depends on the weather.
In English, 'depend' always takes the preposition 'on'.
I'm looking my keys.
I'm looking for my keys.
Use 'look at' to see something, but 'look for' to search for something.
05 / Practice
Complete the sentence: We are waiting ___ the train.
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Answer: for
Why: The verb 'wait' requires the preposition 'for' when followed by the object of the wait.
Complete the sentence: I need to speak ___ my manager about the schedule.
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Answer: to
Why: The verb 'speak' uses 'to' (or sometimes 'with') to indicate the person being addressed.
Complete the sentence: Do you agree ___ my idea?
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Answer: with
Why: We use 'agree with' followed by a person or an idea to show shared opinion.