Prepositions of Agent: 10 Examples in Sentences

What are Prepositions of Agent?

Prepositions of agent are a type of preposition that show the doer of an action. They are used to indicate the person or thing that performs the action expressed by the verb. Prepositions of agent are usually used with passive verbs, which emphasize the action rather than the doer. For example:

• The book was written by Jane. (preposition of agent: by)
• The cake was baked in the oven. (preposition of agent: in)

Prepositions of agent are also called prepositions of instrument or prepositions of means, depending on the context.

10 Examples of Prepositions of Agent in Sentences

1. The painting was created by a famous artist.
2. The message was sent by email.
3. The house was built of bricks and mortar.
4. The car was repaired with a new engine.
5. The song was composed on a guitar.
6. The dress was sewn by a skilled tailor.
7. The meal was cooked on a gas stove.
8. The speech was delivered by the president.
9. The photograph was taken with a digital camera.
10. The sculpture was carved from marble.

How to Use Prepositions of Agent

Prepositions of agent are usually placed after the passive verb and before the noun or pronoun that represents the doer of the action. They are often used to add information or emphasis to a sentence, or to avoid repetition of the doer. For example:

• The novel was written by a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, who is known for her lyrical prose and vivid characters. (adds information and emphasis)
• The mistake was made by me, not by the computer. (avoids repetition)

Prepositions of agent can also be used with active verbs, but in this case they show the means or instrument of the action rather than the doer. For example:

• She cut the paper with scissors. (preposition of means: with)
• He painted the wall in blue. (preposition of instrument: in)

Conclusion

Prepositions of agent are a useful tool for indicating the doer of an action in a clear and concise way. They can add variety and precision to your writing and speaking, and help you avoid repetition or ambiguity. By using prepositions of agent correctly and effectively, you can convey your message with more accuracy and impact.