Verb + Preposition Patterns
Verb + preposition patterns combine verbs and prepositions for specific meanings.
B1Verbs & Verb Patterns
Rule
Verb + preposition patterns are combinations of verbs and prepositions that work together to express specific meanings.
Rule
- Verb + preposition: A verb combined with a preposition to give a new meaning, e.g. look after.
Usage
- We use verb + preposition patterns to express actions and relationships in a more specific way.
- They help us sound more natural and fluent in English.
- These patterns can change the meaning of a sentence completely.
Examples
- She looks after her younger brother.
- He is good at playing football.
- They are interested in learning new languages.
- We are waiting for the bus.
- He is thinking about his future.
- She is tired of her job.
Common Mistakes
- Wrong: She looks her brother. Correct: She looks after her brother.
- Wrong: He is good for playing football. Correct: He is good at playing football.
- Wrong: They are interested on learning new languages. Correct: They are interested in learning new languages.
Tip
Try to learn verb + preposition patterns in groups, like look verbs: look after, look like, look forward to.
Quick check
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Where this matters in your exam
Assessed in Writing and Speaking tasks for vocabulary and grammar range.
- Writing Task 2
Use verb + preposition patterns to express complex ideas.