VERBS THAT DO NOT TAKE PREPOSITIONS

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Sometimes it is difficult to find the right words to express oneself properly. It happens a lot. You want to say something, but you don't know/remember the words necessary to convey your message. Is there anyone who has never faced this situation?

The topic at hand, however, deals with the opposite scenario.

You know the words, and you may feel tempted to use them. However, the rules don't permit much flexibility. Let me give you an example.

A lot of people feel an overwhelming urge to use 'about' with the verb, 'discuss'. During presentations, I often hear students (and teachers) say, "I would like to discuss about the theme of..." instead of "I would like to discuss the theme of..." What they fail to remember is we do not use 'about' with "discuss". In fact, it doesn't take any preposition for that matter.

So, this is wrong.

She discussed about the topic.

But this is correct.

She discussed about the topic.

In a similar fashion, all the following sentences are examples of improper use of grammar.

a. She uses her phone to access to the internet.
b. He attacked on the man with a pencil.
c. The accommodation comprises of six bedrooms and three living rooms.
d. She confronted against the burglars with bravery.
e. I tried to contact with her.
f. Recent evidence has contradicted against established theories on this subject.
g. She demanded for an explanation.
h. He discussed about an issue.
i. You can use italics or capitals to emphasize on a word.
j. The driver entered into the building.
k. He just lacks in a little confidence.

How will you correct the preceding sentences? Well, just remove the preposition that follows the verb.

a. She uses her phone to access the internet.
b. He attacked the man with a pencil.
c. The accommodation comprises six bedrooms and three living rooms.
d. She confronted the burglars with bravery.
e. I tried to contact her.
f. Recent evidence has contradicted established theories on this subject.
g. She demanded an explanation.
h. He discussed an issue.
i. You can use italics or capitals to emphasize a word in a piece of writing.
j. The driver entered the building.
k. He just lacks a little confidence.

Note:

As you can see, the preceding sentences are in Active Voice. The verb, comprise, will take a preposition in the Passive Voice.

For example,

The class is comprised mainly of Indian and Sri Lankan students.

There is one more thing to remember! The corresponding nouns of the preceding verbs can take prepositions after them.

For example,

a. We had a discussion on a few topics.
b. His only problem is a lack of confidence.
c. You can use italics or capitals to put/place/lay emphasis on a word.
d. He had a confrontation yesterday with his boss.
e. The main access to the building is blocked.
f. Their army has made an attack on the city.

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