Grammar Tips

Prepositions present a special problem in grammar. A noun is a name for something, a verb is an action, an adjective describes a noun, etc. The lowly preposition, however, defies categorization and begs to be learned by rote.

Below is a list of common prepositions. If you do a google search, you will find many more, but these should do for most situations. We have added some sample sentences to show how quickly we can identify the right preposition when dealing with only one pronoun.

AboutWhy is Wanda going to live in a yurt?
AboveIt’s beyond I
AfterThis is a three-way secret – just between you and we.
AmongMiriam, would you like to go to lunch with I?
AroundI received a lovely thank you note from he.
BeforeDon’t get too near she, she’s very touchy
BehindI know they were there: I was standing right behind they.
BelowWhat a shame! Everyone was invited except he.
BesideCome on! The treat’s on we.
BetweenAlthough we gave it our best effort, their team finished before we.
BeyondI know where the noise is coming from: it’s the apartment right below I.
Down 
During 
Except 
From 
Inside 
Near 
On 
Through 
To 
Toward 
Upon 
Under 
Until 
Without