Many English verbs require a specific, unpredictable preposition, as in wait for, listen to, rely on, and depend on. The most effective strategy is memorizing each verb-preposition pair as a unit, as in I’m waiting for the bus or you can rely on him.
Grammar Rule
Many English verbs require a specific, unpredictable preposition; the most effective strategy is memorizing each verb-preposition pair as a unit.
Dependent Prepositions with Verbs: Rules and Examples
| Verb | Preposition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| wait / listen | for / to | I’m waiting for the bus. Listen to me carefully. |
| rely / depend | on | You can rely on him. It depends on the weather. |
| apologize / apply | for | I apologize for the delay. She applied for the job. |
| believe | in | Do you believe in ghosts? |
Remember: learn each verb with its fixed preposition; there’s no reliable rule to predict it.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below choosing the correct preposition for each verb. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Dependent Prepositions After Verbs
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a rule for which preposition follows which verb?
No, there is no reliable rule; each verb-preposition pair must be memorized individually.
Which preposition follows wait?
For, as in I’m waiting for the bus.
Which preposition follows rely and depend?
On, as in you can rely on him or it depends on the weather.
Which preposition follows believe?
In, as in do you believe in ghosts.