Abstract Prepositional Phrases

Hello English learners! Have you ever noticed how some expressions in English don’t describe a place or an object, but rather an idea? These are called abstract prepositional phrases. Unlike simple ones, such as on the table or under the bed, abstract prepositional phrases deal with concepts like cause, contrast, purpose, and condition.

They are especially common in formal English, such as in academic essays, Cambridge exams, business writing, or professional emails. Mastering them will help you sound more precise, organised, and advanced. Instead of using long, complicated sentences, you can make your English sharper by slipping in one of these elegant phrases.

In today’s lesson, we’ll explore some of the most useful abstract prepositional phrases, learn their meanings, and see how to use them in real sentences. By the end, you’ll have a set of expressions that will not only boost your vocabulary but also impress examiners, colleagues, and native speakers alike.

So, let’s dive in!

Prepositional phrase	Meaning	Example sentence
In terms of	regarding; concerning a particular aspect.	In terms of cost, the new plan is far more efficient.
In the course of	during; while something happens.	In the course of our discussion, several new ideas emerged.
By virtue of	because of; due to something.	She was selected for the role by virtue of her experience.
In light of	considering; because of certain information.	In light of recent events, the meeting was postponed.
With respect to	concerning; about a particular subject.	With respect to your request, we will provide a response tomorrow.
In accordance with	following the rules, traditions, or expectations of something.	The company acted in accordance with international law.
For the sake of	for the benefit of; in order to help or protect.	They stayed together for the sake of their children.
In favour of	supporting; preferring one option over another.	The committee voted in favour of the new proposal. Abstract Prepositional Phrases
At the expense of	sacrificing or harming something else.	He built his career at the expense of his health.
In the event of	if something happens.	In the event of an emergency, please follow the exit signs.
In opposition to	against; disagreeing with.	Several groups protested in opposition to the policy.
In pursuit of	trying to achieve something.	She travelled the world in pursuit of knowledge.
In connection with	related to; concerning.	He was arrested in connection with the robbery.
For want of	because of a lack of something.	The project failed for want of proper funding.
At the mercy of	without control, vulnerable to something.	The sailors were at the mercy of the storm.
On behalf of	representing someone else.	Sara accepted the award on behalf of her team.
At odds with	in disagreement or conflict with.	His views were at odds with the majority opinion.
In line with	matching or consistent with something.	Her actions were in line with company policy.
By means of	using; through the use of something.	The message was sent by means of encrypted software.
In lieu of	instead of. Abstract Prepositional Phrases	They offered extra holiday days in lieu of a salary increase.
In the absence of	when something is not present.	In the absence of clear evidence, the case was dismissed.
In defiance of	acting against rules or authority.	The protestors marched in defiance of the government’s orders.
With regard to	about; concerning.	With regard to your application, we will reply shortly.
In excess of	more than.	He donated in excess of £10,000 to charity.
In contrast to	showing difference from something else.	In contrast to her brother, she is very outgoing.
In exchange for	as a trade or substitution.	He gave her his watch in exchange for a painting.
In compliance with	following rules or requests.	All buildings must be constructed in compliance with safety regulations.
In recognition of	to show appreciation for something.	She was given an award in recognition of her achievements.
In anticipation of	expecting something to happen.	They prepared supplies in anticipation of bad weather.
In proportion to	corresponding in size, degree, or amount.	Payment will be made in proportion to the work completed.

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Abstract Prepositional Phrases

Published by My Lingua Academy on 15 Sep 202515 Sep 2025