Noun + preposition
Many nouns are normally followed by a particular preposition. There are no reliable rules for choosing the preposition, so it is best to learn the noun + preposition combination together.
Advanced examples
At higher levels, many noun + preposition combinations are used in formal, academic and professional English.
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aptitude for = a natural ability or talent for something
She has a natural aptitude for languages. -
allusion to = an indirect reference to something
The poem contains an allusion to a Greek myth. -
prerequisite for = something needed before something else can happen
A university degree is a prerequisite for this job. -
aversion to = a strong dislike of something
He has a strong aversion to conflict. -
insight into = a deeper understanding of something
The documentary offers an insight into prison life. -
disregard for = a lack of respect or attention for something
He showed complete disregard for the rules. -
quest for = a search for something important
Science is driven by the quest for knowledge. -
deterrent to = something that prevents or discourages an action
Longer sentences may act as a deterrent to crime. -
penchant for = a strong liking or tendency towards something
He has a penchant for expensive cars. -
testament to = something that shows or proves a quality or achievement
The cathedral is a testament to his genius. -
antidote to = something that helps reduce or remove a negative effect
Laughter can be an antidote to stress. -
constraints on = limits or restrictions on something
There are severe financial constraints on the project. -
bearing on = relevance or connection to something
This evidence has no bearing on the case. -
monopoly on = complete control over something
No one has a monopoly on the truth. -
rapport with = a good relationship or understanding with someone
She has an excellent rapport with her students. -
reliance on = dependence on something
We must reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. -
onus on = responsibility or duty placed on someone
The onus is on the employer to prove it. -
premium on = great importance or value given to something
They place a high premium on honesty. -
curb on = a limit or restriction on something
The new policy puts a curb on public spending. -
affinity for = a natural liking or connection with something
She has always had an affinity for animals. -
access to = the possibility or right to use something
Everyone should have access to education. -
contribution to = something that helps achieve a result
His research made an important contribution to science.
