Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Prepositional phrases are essential for expressing complex ideas clearly and elegantly. In formal English—used in essays, reports, proposals, and academic discussions—these phrases make your writing more precise, cohesive, and polished. They help you show relationships between ideas (such as cause, contrast, or condition) and can elevate your writing style to an advanced level.  Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Let’s explore the most useful prepositional phrases for formal English, grouped by their function, with examples suitable for B2–C1 learners.

Showing Cause and Reason

These phrases explain why something happens or exists.

Because of / Owing to / Due to / On account of

• The meeting was cancelled owing to unforeseen circumstances.
• The delay was due to a lack of communication.

By virtue of / As a result of / As a consequence of

• She succeeded by virtue of her determination and discipline.
• The company faced legal action as a result of its negligence.   Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Expressing Contrast

Used to show differences or opposing ideas in formal writing.

In contrast to / Contrary to / In spite of / Despite

• In contrast to previous studies, the results showed no significant change.
• Despite the difficulties, the project was completed on time.

Notwithstanding / Regardless of / In opposition to

• Notwithstanding his lack of experience, he performed admirably.
• The law was passed in opposition to public opinion.

Showing Purpose and Intention

These help explain the aim behind an action.

For the purpose of / With the aim of / With a view to

• The policy was introduced with the aim of reducing unemployment.
• She attended the course for the purpose of improving her writing skills.

In order to / So as to (followed by infinitive)

• He worked overtime in order to meet the deadline.
• The notice was issued so as to inform the public. Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Showing Condition

Use these to express circumstances that affect results.

In case of / In the event of / In the absence of

• In the event of an emergency, please contact reception immediately.
• In the absence of evidence, the claim cannot be verified.

Expressing Addition or Emphasis

Formal writing often needs to highlight or extend an idea.

In addition to / Apart from / As well as

• In addition to their salary, employees receive performance bonuses.
• Apart from financial benefits, the project offers social advantages.

By means of / Through the use of / With the help of

• The problem was solved by means of a new algorithm.
• The company improved efficiency through the use of modern technology.

Showing Time and Sequence

These phrases give structure to your ideas, especially in reports or essays.

In the course of / At the time of / Prior to / Subsequent to / Following

• In the course of the investigation, several irregularities were found.
• Prior to the meeting, participants were asked to review the documents.
• Subsequent to the announcement, sales increased dramatically. Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Showing Reference or Relation

Used to connect ideas formally and logically.

In relation to / With regard to / In reference to / In connection with

• With regard to your recent enquiry, we are pleased to provide further details.
• The study examined social behaviour in relation to environmental factors.

Showing Result or Effect

Perfect for academic or analytical writing.

In consequence of / As a consequence of / As a result of

• The experiment failed as a consequence of poor planning.
• The team was promoted in consequence of their exceptional performance.

Expressing Manner or Means

These describe how something is done in a refined way.

In accordance with / In compliance with / In line with / In keeping with

• All procedures were carried out in accordance with international standards.
• The proposal was revised in line with the committee’s recommendations.

Expressing Exception or Limitation

These highlight restrictions or exclusions.

Except for / Apart from / Save for / With the exception of

• All members attended the meeting, with the exception of Mr. Smith.
• The building remained intact, save for a few minor cracks. Prepositional Phrases for Formal Contexts

Using prepositional phrases correctly can transform your writing from ordinary to professional. They not only make your arguments clearer but also show examiners that you have a strong command of formal English. Practise using these phrases in your essays, reports, and formal letters—you’ll soon sound more confident and fluent.

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