What are Dependent Prepositions?
Many verbs, nouns, and adjectives are "linked" to a specific preposition. These are called dependent prepositions because the choice of preposition depends entirely on the word before it.
At an advanced level, there are no simple rules to predict which preposition to use. You must learn these as fixed pairs (collocations).
The success of the project depends on everyone's contribution.
She is capable of much more than this.
There is a great demand for organic produce.
1. Verbs + Prepositions
Some verbs change their meaning slightly or require a specific preposition to function correctly in a sentence.
| Verb | Preposition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Comply | with | All companies must comply with safety regulations. |
| Substitute | for | You can substitute honey for sugar in this recipe. |
| Specialize | in | This law firm specializes in international trade. |
| Attribute | to | He attributes his success to hard work. |
2. Adjectives + Prepositions
Adjectives often describe a state or feeling toward something else.
| Adjective | Preposition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Devoid | of | The landscape was completely devoid of life. |
| Compatible | with | This software is not compatible with older MacBooks. |
| Resigned | to | He seems resigned to the fact that he won't get a raise. |
| Intent | on | She is intent on finishing her degree this year. |
3. Nouns + Prepositions
Abstract nouns in academic or professional English frequently require specific prepositions.
| Noun | Preposition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Insight | into | The study provides an insight into consumer behavior. |
| Deterrent | to | The high price is a deterrent to many potential buyers. |
| Advocate | of/for | He is a strong advocate of solar energy. |
| Proximity | to | The house is attractive due to its proximity to the park. |
4. One Word, Different Prepositions
Sometimes, a word can take different prepositions depending on the context or the object that follows.
- Agree with (a person/idea): I agree with you.
- Agree to (a proposal/plan): They agreed to the terms of the contract.
-
Agree on (a topic after discussion): We finally agreed on a date for the wedding.
-
Remind of (similarity): This song reminds me of my childhood.
- Remind about (a task/appointment): Please remind me about the meeting tomorrow.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
| ✗ Incorrect | ✓ Correct | Why |
|---|---|---|
| It depends of the weather. | It depends on the weather. | Depend always takes on. |
| She is interested on art. | She is interested in art. | Interested always takes in. |
| Discuss about the problem. | Discuss the problem. | Discuss is a transitive verb; no preposition needed. |
| He is married with a doctor. | He is married to a doctor. | Use to for marriage/engagement. |
Summary
| Category | Example Pairs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Consistent with, result in, research into |
| Feelings | Ashamed of, proud of, enthusiastic about |
| Connections | Relationship with, link between, contact with |
💡 The key takeaway: Don't try to translate prepositions from your own language. Instead, treat the "Word + Preposition" as a single unit of vocabulary when you take notes.