Formal Functions of Prepositions

Prepositions perform three formal functions in sentences. They can act as an adjective modifying a noun, as an adverb modifying a verb, or as a nominal when used in conjunction with the verb form to be. Prepositional phrase examples that show the different functions can help you understand them better.

 

Prepositions Functioning as Adjectives

In the following sentences, prepositional phrases perform the function of modifying the nouns boat, pen and truck:

• ·         Look at the boat with the blue sail.
• ·         Please hand me the pen next to the telephone.
• ·         Have him move the truck with the trailer. 

Prepositions Functioning as Adverbs

Adverbs modify verbs by explaining when, where, how, and to what extent something is occurring. In these examples, notice how the prepositional phrases perform adverbial functions by modifying the verbs runs, stalled and won.

• The coyote runs after the rabbit.
• The car stalled despite the tune-up.
• The team won without the starting quarterback.

 

Prepositions Functioning as Nominals

In English, sometimes words function as nouns but aren't themselves nouns. These words are called nominals. Prepositional phrases sometimes perform this important function in sentences when they are used in conjunction with the verb to be.

For example:

• The park is next to the hospital.
• The student is between an A and a B.
• The fight scene is before the second act.