Frequently a preposition is used with a verb where it is not needed. This may happen because of confusion between a regular transitive verb which is not a phrasal verb, and a similar noun which does require a preposition. For example:
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X We should discuss about the proposal. ✔ We should discuss the proposal. |
This error may be due to confusion between the verb discuss (transitive; no preposition) with the noun discussion (countable, and often followed by about):
| ✔ We should have a discussion about the proposal. |
Stress can be either a verb (transitive) or a noun (usually uncountable), so it may be even more confusing.
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X We must stress on the importance of employee safety. ✔ We must stress the importance of employee safety. ✔ We must place stress on the importance of employee safety. |
Here are some similar examples. Pay attention to the differences between the transitive verb and the verb + noun + preposition pattern.
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X I want to emphasise on team spirit. ✔ I want to emphasise team spirit. ✔ I want to place emphasis on team spirit. |
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X Mr Lee demanded for an apology. ✔ Mr lee demanded an apology. ✔ Mr Lee issued a demand for an apology. |
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X I have requested for a new assignment. ✔ I have requested a new assignment. ✔ I have made a request for a new assignment. |
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X Did you order for 120 reams of A4 paper? ✔ Did you order 120 reams of A4 paper? ✔ Did you place that order for 120 reams of A4 paper? |
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X Andrew will contact with the suppliers tomorrow. ✔ Andrew will contact the suppliers tomorrow. ✔ Andrew will make contact with the suppliers tomorrow. |
Sometimes two verbs have similar meanings, but one is phrasal and the other is not.
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X I would like you to consider about my suggestion. ✔ I would like you to consider my suggestion. ✔ I would like you to think about my suggestion. |
Out is sometimes used unnecessarily. Note the following examples:
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X Please list out the names of the employees. ✔ Please list the names of the employees. |
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X We have sold out over one thousand units this month. ✔ We have sold over one thousand units this month. |
Sometimes out is used with sell, usually in the passive form. In this case it means ‘all the items have been sold; there is nothing left.’
| ✔ I am afraid the D-52 model is completely sold out. |
OR
| ✔ We are sold out of the D-52 model. |