Introduction
Navigating the intricacies of English grammar often hinges on mastering small but crucial elements, such as knowing which preposition correctly follows an adjective. A reliable prepositions after adjectives list is an indispensable tool for anyone aiming to write and speak with precision and confidence. This article provides a complete guide, featuring an extensive list of examples, essential tips for learners, and answers to common questions, making it your ultimate resource for conquering this grammatical challenge.
Why Mastering Adjective + Preposition Combinations Matters
Using the correct preposition after an adjective is not just about grammatical accuracy; it’s about conveying your intended meaning clearly. Incorrect pairings (e.g., “aware with” instead of “aware of“) can confuse listeners and mark your language as non-native. For students and candidates preparing for competitive exams like TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, SAT, or various government job tests, proficiency in these collocations is directly linked to higher scores in writing, speaking, and error-spotting sections. A strong grasp of these combinations demonstrates a command of idiomatic English.
Important Tips for Using a Prepositions After Adjectives List
- Treat Them as Chunks: Don’t try to reason why an adjective takes a specific preposition. Instead, memorize the adjective+preposition combination as a single “chunk” of language (e.g., “fond of,” “interested in“).
- Context is Key: Some adjectives can pair with different prepositions, altering the meaning. For example, “angry with (a person)” vs. “angry about (a situation).” Pay attention to the noun that follows the preposition.
- Active Practice: Merely reading a list is not enough. Use the combinations in your own sentences. Create flashcards with the adjective on one side and the correct preposition and an example sentence on the other.
- Learn by Pattern: Group adjectives that share the same preposition (e.g., adjectives of feeling often take about: excited about, happy about, anxious about). This can aid memorization.
- Listen and Read: Pay attention to these combinations in English movies, news articles, and podcasts. Contextual exposure reinforces correct usage.
100 Examples of Prepositions After Adjectives List
- accustomed to
- acquainted with
- addicted to
- afraid of
- aggravated with
- amazed at/by
- angry about/with
- annoyed with/about
- anxious about
- appreciative of
- ashamed of
- associated with
- astonished at/by
- aware of
- bad at
- based on
- blessed with
- bored with
- capable of
- certain of/about
- characterized by
- clever at
- committed to
- composed of
- concerned about
- connected to/with
- conscious of
- content with
- contrary to
- convinced of
- dedicated to
- delighted with
- dependent on
- different from/than
- disappointed with/in
- disconnected from
- discouraged by
- distinct from
- doubtful about
- eager for
- eligible for
- engaged to/in
- enthusiastic about
- envious of
- equal to
- essential to/for
- excited about
- experienced in
- exposed to
- faithful to
- familiar with
- famous for
- fed up with
- filled with
- fond of
- friendly with/to
- frightened of
- full of
- furious about/with
- furnished with
- glad about
- good at/for
- grateful for/to
- guilty of
- happy about/with
- identical to
- immune to
- impatient with
- impressed with/by
- inferior to
- innocent of
- interested in
- involved in/with
- jealous of
- keen on
- kind to
- known for
- limited to
- loyal to
- made of/from
- married to
- nervous about
- obliged to
- opposed to
- patient with
- pleased with
- polite to
- popular with
- proud of
- qualified for
- ready for
- related to
- relevant to
- responsible for
- satisfied with
- scared of
- sensitive to
- serious about
- shocked at/by
- similar to
- skilled at/in
- sorry for/about
- suitable for
- superior to
- sure of/about
- surprised at/by
- suspicious of
- terrified of
- tired of
- typical of
- upset about/with
- used to
- worried about
FAQs on Prepositions After Adjectives List
Q1: Is there a rule to determine which preposition follows an adjective?
Unfortunately, there is no single, universal rule. The preposition is often determined by historical usage and idiom. The most effective method is to learn common adjective+preposition combinations as fixed phrases through exposure and practice, using a reliable prepositions after adjectives list as a reference.
Q2: Can the same adjective be used with different prepositions?
Yes, and the meaning can change significantly. For instance:
- Good at (skill): She is good at mathematics.
- Good for (beneficial): Exercise is good for your health.
Always consider the object of the preposition to choose correctly.
Q3: How can I quickly improve my use of these combinations for an upcoming exam?
Focus on high-frequency combinations. Use your prepositions after adjectives list to identify 2-3 new pairs daily. Write them in sentences related to common exam topics (technology, education, environment). Practice by correcting error-spotting exercises specifically targeting preposition errors.
Conclusion: Prepositions After Adjectives List
Achieving grammatical fluency requires attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of adjective-preposition partnerships is a cornerstone of proficient English. By diligently studying and applying the examples in this prepositions after adjectives list, you can eliminate a common source of errors and express yourself with greater accuracy. Make this list a part of your regular study routine, and you will notice a significant improvement in both your written and spoken communication, giving you a distinct edge in academic and professional pursuits.
Disclaimer: This article provides a guide for common English usage. Language can evolve and have regional variations. For authoritative grammatical decisions, especially in formal settings, consulting a current style guide or dictionary is recommended.
Also Read: Everyday vs Every Day: Your Clear Guide to Perfect Usage
Master Your Schedule: The Ultimate Guide to Prepositions of Time At, On, and In