Adjectives + Prepositions

Some adjectives go with some prepositions but there are no grammatical rules for which preposition is used with which adjective.  It is therefore a good idea to learn these adjectives and prepositions together as ‘language chunks.’

However, one pattern that can help you is remembering that prepositions are followed by a noun or a gerund (-ing form).

With at

We use at with adjectives like good/bad/amazing/brilliant/terrible, etc. to talk about skills and abilities.

He’s really good at English.
She’s amazing at tennis.
They’re terrible at organising anything.
I’m not very good at drawing.

With about

We often use about with adjectives of feelings like angry/excited/happy/nervous/sad/stressed/worried, etc. to explain what is causing that feeling.

I’m angry about the decision.
He’s nervous about the presentation.
She’s excited about the new job.
They were worried about the exam.

With of

However, sometimes we use of with feelings.

She was afraid of telling her boss.
I’m frightened of having an accident.
He’s scared of flying.
You should be proud of your progress.

With to

We can use to to show the connection between people or things.

He’s married to the manager.
I’m addicted to my mobile phone.
I’m allergic to nuts.
It’s similar to the old one.

We can also use to to talk about someone’s behaviour towards someone else.

The guests were really friendly to me.
Was he nice to you?
Mr Smith is always polite to everyone.
She was very rude to the waitress.

Here are some other useful adjectives with prepositions.

With for

Exercise is good for you.
Stress is bad for you.
The town is famous for its breathtaking architecture.
I’m responsible for the financial side of the hotel.

With in

She’s interested in the project.
They want someone who’s experienced in hospitality.
I didn’t want to get involved in the argument.

Test

Answers 👇👇👇

1. about
2. by
3. with
4. in
5. at
6. to
7. to