Direct Answer
Preface sth with sth means to begin or introduce something by adding a preliminary statement or action. It is often used to show that one thing comes before another as an introduction.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: Preface something with something
- Type: Transitive
- Level: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
- Short meaning: To introduce or begin something by adding a preliminary statement or action
Meaning in Detail
The preface sth with sth meaning is to start or introduce a speech, text, or action by adding an initial comment, explanation, or event. This helps the listener or reader understand the context or purpose before the main content begins. For example, an author may preface a book with a note explaining why it was written.
Structure (Grammar Rules)
The phrasal verb preface sth with sth is transitive and inseparable. This means you cannot separate the verb and the preposition with the object.
- Correct pattern: preface + something + with + something
- Example: They prefaced the speech with a brief introduction.
- Incorrect: They prefaced with a brief introduction the speech.
Examples
Here are some natural Preface sth with sth in a sentence examples:
- She prefaced her remarks with a warning about the risks involved.
- The professor prefaced the lecture with a summary of last weekโs topic.
- The author prefaced the novel with a heartfelt dedication.
- Before the meeting, he prefaced his presentation with some background information.
- They prefaced the announcement with a short explanation of the changes.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: She prefaced with a note the speech.
Correct: She prefaced the speech with a note. - Incorrect: He prefaced the speech by a short introduction.
Correct: He prefaced the speech with a short introduction. - Incorrect: They prefaced the speech using a warning.
Correct: They prefaced the speech with a warning.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar phrases include introduce and begin with. However, preface sth with sth specifically implies a formal or deliberate introduction, often in writing or speech.
- Introduce: More general, can mean to present or bring in.
- Begin with: Focuses on the start, but less formal than preface.
- Preface sth with sth: Formal, used to show a preliminary statement or action before the main content.
Common Collocations
- Preface a speech with a warning
- Preface a book with a note
- Preface a lecture with an introduction
- Preface a presentation with background information
- Preface comments with an apology
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of preface sth with sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: How did the speaker start his talk?
Ben: He prefaced it with a quick summary of the previous meeting.
Anna: Thatโs a good way to help everyone follow along.
Practice
Choose the correct sentence:
- A) She prefaced the report a short explanation.
- B) She prefaced the report with a short explanation.
- C) She prefaced with a short explanation the report.
Answer: B
FAQ
- Q: What does โpreface sth with sthโ mean?
A: It means to introduce something by adding a preliminary statement or action. - Q: Can I separate โprefaceโ and โwithโ?
A: No, โpreface sth with sthโ is inseparable and should stay together. - Q: Is โpreface sth with sthโ formal?
A: Yes, it is mainly used in formal or written contexts. - Q: Can I use โprefaceโ without โwithโ?
A: Usually, โprefaceโ requires โwithโ to show what is added as an introduction. - Q: What are common objects after โprefaceโ?
A: Speech, book, remarks, lecture, presentation, comments.
