Exercise 2: Identifying and Using Compound Prepositions

Identify the compound preposition in each sentence below. Then, rewrite the sentence
using different compound preposition or a one-word preposition.
EXAMPLE: A cloud passed in front of the moon.
ANSWER: in front of; A cloud passed before the moon.

1. In our solar system, one planet next to Earth is Venus.

2. According to old theories, Venus was much like Earth.
3. However, by means of new technology, we now know that Venus is very different
from Earth.
4. For example, on Venus the sun rises in the west instead of the east.
5. The air is so thick at the surface is twenty-one times greater than that on Earth.
6. The air pressure next to the surface is twenty-one times greater than that on Earth.
7. In addition to the conditions at the surface, Venus also has three layers of cloud in
its atmosphere.
8. These clouds are composed of sulfuric acid instead of water vapor and could
quickly destroy a space probe.
9. The clouds at the top of the atmosphere are thin and hazy, and the wind always
blows from east to west.
10. Because of the clouds surround Venus, its surface can’t be seen clearly from
space.