Some nouns are followed by particular prepositions. Test your understanding of these common noun + preposition combinations with this grammar exercise.
Instruction: Complete the following sentences using appropriate prepositions.
1We had little hope ............... success; nonetheless, we decided to perform the operation.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "hope of" when referring to the chance that something will happen.
2The cash-for-vote scandal did a lot of harm ............... his reputation as a conscientious politician.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "harm to" when referring "to" damage affecting someone or something.
3We have to find a substitute ............... it.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "substitute for" when one thing replaces another.
4We should deem it an attack ............... our right to privacy.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "attack on" when referring to an action against a right or principle.
5In many cities the cost ............... living is pretty high.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "cost of" in the fixed phrase "cost" of "living".
6We would like to see a big increase ............... productivity.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "increase in" when referring to a rise "in" an amount or level.
7I have no interest ............... politics.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "interest in" when referring to a subject someone cares about.
8I have no faith ............... her capabilities.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "faith in" when referring to trust "in" someone or something.
9I have heard that the government is planning to raise the tax ............... automobiles.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "tax on" when referring to something that is taxed.
10I admire their way ............... doing things.
Wrong!
The correct noun-preposition combination is "way of" before a gerund such as "doing".
Answers
- We had little hope of success; nonetheless, we decided to perform the operation.
- The cash-for-vote scandal did a lot of harm to his reputation as a conscientious politician.
- We have to find a substitute for it.
- We should deem it an attack on our right to privacy.
- In many cities the cost of living is pretty high.
- We would like to see a big increase in productivity.
- I have no interest in politics.
- I have no faith in her capabilities.
- I have heard that the government is planning to raise the tax on automobiles.
- I admire their way of doing things.
