Complex Prepositions in Advanced Discourse

• Complex prepositions consist of two or more words functioning as a single preposition to establish formal relationships of cause, concession, or reference.
• Preposition
• Primary Function
• Example Context
• in view of
• Considering or taking into account
• In view of the recent storm, the council delayed the vote.
• notwithstanding
• Despite or regardless of
• Notwithstanding the severe damage, the team persevered.
• in the wake of
• Following closely after an event
• In the wake of the floods, volunteers arrived in Dover.
• Remember
• Always follow complex prepositions with a noun, pronoun, or gerund phrase rather than a full clause.
• Use 'notwithstanding' before a noun or after its noun phrase in elevated formal registers.
• Ensure the prepositional phrase logically modifies the main subject or action of the sentence.
• Examples
• In light of the mounting evidence, insurance claims were processed rapidly in Bristol.
• By virtue of their tireless efforts, the community center in York reopened early.
• With regard to the temporary housing in Leeds, officials released a statement.
• Common mistakes
• In light of that the river burst its banks, residents evacuated.
• In light of the fact that the river burst its banks, residents evacuated.

Complete the sentences

• ___ the severe weather warnings issued in Manchester, outdoor events were cancelled. (view) ____
• ___ their exceptional resilience during the crisis in Sheffield, volunteers received local awards. (virtue) ____
• ___ the rising costs of repairs in Glasgow, homeowners sought additional financial support. (light) ____
• ___ the ongoing transport delays across London, commuters faced lengthy journeys. (wake) ____
• ___ all logistical challenges in Liverpool, the relief effort delivered supplies successfully. (notwithstanding) ____
• ___ the recent policy changes in Edinburgh, grants for home insulation increased. (regard) ____

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