Phrasal Preposition: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar
Last Updated: 01 Jul, 2025
Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn all about Phrasal Prepositions in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, provide examples, and show you how to use them correctly. You'll find real-life examples, a quick quiz, and pro tips to help you master this essential grammar topic.
What is a Phrasal Preposition?
Phrasal Preposition Definition: A phrasal preposition (also called compound preposition) is a group of words that functions as a single preposition. These prepositions consist of two or more words that work together to show relationships between words in a sentence.
Why are Phrasal Prepositions Important? They help us express complex relationships and add precision to our communication, especially in formal writing and speech.
Function in Grammar
Phrasal prepositions work like single prepositions but provide more specific meanings:
- Location: The book is in front of the computer.
- Time: We arrived ahead of schedule.
- Cause: Because of the rain, we stayed inside.
Simple vs Phrasal Prepositions
| Simple Preposition | Phrasal Preposition |
|---|---|
| before | in front of |
| near | close to |
| about | with regard to |
| despite | in spite of |
Phrasal prepositions often provide more specific or formal alternatives to simple prepositions.
📌 Phrasal Preposition Challenge!
Can you identify the phrasal prepositions?
- The book is in front of the computer.
- Because of the rain, we stayed inside.
- She succeeded in spite of difficulties.
Show Answers
- in front of
- because of
- in spite of
Examples of Phrasal Prepositions
- The book is in front of the computer.
- Because of the rain, we stayed inside.
- She succeeded in spite of difficulties.
- We talked with regard to the project.
- The store is next to the bank.
- According to the weather report, it will rain.
- He works instead of playing.
- The meeting is prior to lunch.
- She stood on top of the hill.
- As well as studying, she works part-time.
Categories of Phrasal Prepositions
Location/Position:
- in front of - before something
- next to - beside
- on top of - above
- at the back of - behind
- close to - near
Time:
- prior to - before
- ahead of - earlier than
- as of - starting from
Cause/Reason:
- because of - due to
- owing to - as a result of
- due to - caused by
Contrast/Exception:
- in spite of - despite
- instead of - rather than
- apart from - except for
Common Phrasal Prepositions
| Phrasal Preposition | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| according to | as stated by | According to the news |
| because of | due to | Because of the rain |
| in front of | before | In front of the house |
| in spite of | despite | In spite of problems |
| instead of | rather than | Instead of walking |
| with regard to | concerning | With regard to your letter |
These phrasal prepositions are commonly used in both formal and informal English.
Special Rules and Notes
- Unity: Treat phrasal prepositions as single units - don't separate the words.
- Formality: Many phrasal prepositions are more formal than simple prepositions.
- Fixed Forms: The word order in phrasal prepositions is fixed and cannot be changed.
- Object Required: Phrasal prepositions must be followed by an object (noun or pronoun).
- Position: They usually come before their objects, just like simple prepositions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Separating Words: Don't say "in spite" alone - always use "in spite of."
- Wrong Word Order: Don't change the order of words in phrasal prepositions.
- Missing Objects: Always include an object after phrasal prepositions.
- Overuse: Don't use phrasal prepositions when simple ones work better.
Quick Quiz: Complete the Phrasal Preposition!
Complete these phrasal prepositions:
- in front ___
- because ___
- in spite ___
- according ___
- instead ___
Answers: of, of, of, to, of
Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Identify Phrasal Prepositions
Find the phrasal prepositions in these sentences:
- The car is in front of the house.
- According to the teacher, the test is tomorrow.
- She succeeded in spite of many obstacles.
- Instead of studying, he watched TV.
- The meeting is prior to lunch.
Show Answers
- in front of
- according to
- in spite of
- instead of
- prior to
Exercise 2: Complete the Sentences
Fill in with appropriate phrasal prepositions:
- _____ the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.
- She stood _____ the mountain.
- _____ the traffic, we were late.
- The book is _____ the computer.
- He worked _____ taking a break.
Show Answers
- According to
- on top of
- Because of
- in front of/next to
- instead of
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a phrasal preposition?
A phrasal preposition (also called compound preposition) is a group of words that functions as a single preposition. These prepositions consist of two or more words that work together to show relationships between words in a sentence.
What are examples of phrasal prepositions?
Examples include in front of, because of, in spite of, according to, instead of, with regard to, on top of, next to, due to, and apart from. These multi-word prepositions provide specific meanings.
How do phrasal prepositions differ from simple prepositions?
Phrasal prepositions consist of multiple words (in front of), while simple prepositions are single words (before). Phrasal prepositions often provide more specific or formal alternatives to simple prepositions.
What are the main categories of phrasal prepositions?
Phrasal prepositions can be categorized by function: location/position (in front of, next to), time (prior to, ahead of), cause/reason (because of, due to), and contrast/exception (in spite of, instead of).
Can phrasal prepositions be separated?
No, phrasal prepositions must be treated as single units and cannot be separated. The word order in phrasal prepositions is fixed and cannot be changed. For example, you cannot say "in spite" alone - it must be "in spite of."
Why are phrasal prepositions important?
Phrasal prepositions help express complex relationships and add precision to communication, especially in formal writing and speech. They provide more specific meanings than simple prepositions.
Are phrasal prepositions more formal than simple prepositions?
Many phrasal prepositions are more formal than their simple preposition equivalents. For example, "with regard to" is more formal than "about," and "prior to" is more formal than "before." They are commonly used in academic and professional writing.
Do phrasal prepositions always need objects?
Yes, like simple prepositions, phrasal prepositions must be followed by an object (noun or pronoun). For example: "in front of the house," "because of the rain," and "instead of studying." The object completes the prepositional phrase.
Conclusion
Phrasal prepositions are groups of words that function as single prepositions. They add precision and formality to our communication. Remember to treat them as complete units!