Prepositions of Cause and Purpose

Meaning

Preposition / Phrase

Examples

cause, reason

{

because of
on account of
for
from
through

}

The barbecue was cancelled because of the rain.
We didn't go on account of the bad weather.
He succeeded for many reasons.
Unfortunately you won't succeed from hard work alone.
The operation was successful only through the great skill of the surgeon.

motive

out of

The letter was sent out of anger and spite.

purpose, goal, target

for

Victor is applying for the post of Senior Technician.

intended recipient

for

Lily bought a toy for the little boy.

actual recipient

He gave the money to her.

goal, target ( with hostility )

{

at
to
towards

}

The police fired at the bank robbers.
I don't wish any harm to him.
I don't have any bad feeling towards him, in spite of what he said.

target, point ( with neutral attitude )

Helen smiled at the baby.

	MIND YOUR GRAMMAR Lesson 2: Prepositions of Cause & Purpose
		Lesson 2 index