Practice verb and preposition combinations with B1 level exercises. Clear explanations, gap fill questions, and grammar tests for learners.
Verb + Preposition Exercises
In English, a lot of verbs need certain prepositions after them. These combinations of verbs and prepositions are very common and are often set phrases. This means that you usually can’t change the preposition. To speak and write English naturally, you need to learn these combinations.
What is a combination of a verb and a preposition?
A verb + preposition combination happens when a verb is followed by a specific preposition that adds to its meaning.
Structure:
verb + preposition + object
Examples:
- listen to music
- depend on someone
- agree with an idea
- apologize for a mistake
Putting the wrong preposition in a sentence can make it wrong or hard to understand.
Common combinations of verbs and prepositions
Here are some of the most common verb + preposition pairs for B1 level.
Verb + to
- listen to
- belong to
- respond to
Examples:
Please listen to the instructions carefully.
This bag belongs to my sister.
Verb + for
- wait for
- apologize for
- apply for
Examples:
We waited for the bus for a long time.
She applied for the job last week.
Verb + on
- depend on
- rely on
- focus on
Examples:
You can depend on him.
Try to focus on your work.
Verb + with
- agree with
- argue with
- deal with
Examples:
I agree with your opinion.
She had to deal with a difficult customer.
Verb + preposition + -ing form
We use the -ing form of a verb when it comes after a preposition, not the infinitive.
Examples:
He apologized for being late.
They are thinking about moving abroad.
This rule is very important and often tested at B1 level.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Incorrect: listen music
- Correct: listen to music
- Incorrect: depend from someone
- Correct: depend on someone
Because these combinations are set in stone, translating directly from your own language often leads to mistakes.
