Problems with Prepositions
Rule 1You may end a sentence with a preposition. Just do not use extra prepositions when the meaning is clear without them.
Correct: That is something I cannot agree with. That is something with which I cannot agree.
Correct: Where did he go?
Incorrect: Where did he go to?
Correct: Where did you get this?
Incorrect: Where did you get this at?
Correct: I will go later.
Incorrect: I will go later on.
Correct: Take your shoes off the bed.
Incorrect: Take your shoes off of the bed.
Correct: You may look out the window.
Incorrect: You may look out of the window.
Correct: Cut it into small pieces.
Incorrect: Cut it up into small pieces.
Rule 2
Use on with expressions that indicate the time of an occurrence.
Examples: He was born on December 23. We will arrive on the fourth.
Rule 3
Of should never be used in place of have.
Correct: I should have done it.
Incorrect: I should of done it.
Rule 4
Between refers to two. Among is used for three or more.
Examples: Divide the candy between the two of you. Divide the candy among the three of you.
Rule 5
The word like may be used as a preposition and in informal writing, as a conjunction. In formal writing, use as, as if, or as though rather than like as the conjunction.
Examples:
Prepositional usage
You look so much like your mother.
Conjunction usage
You look like you are angry.
OR
You look as if you are angry.