English learners know that prepositions can be difficult to master. There are 94 one-word prepositions in English, and about 56 prepositions with two or more words, called “complex prepositions.” This adds up to 150 chances to make mistakes. Here are a few explanations of different prepositions that use the verb: provide. To provide can be followed by an indirect object. English speakers use the preposition “with.” To provide someone with something means to give something wanted or needed. To provide for is another verb-preposition combination. To Provide for means to make whatever is necessary for someone available to them. We use this expression often when we talk about parents providing for their family. This preposition can also be used in other ways. To provide for can also mean to make it possible for something to happen in the future. When “provide” is followed by a direct object, English speakers can use the prepositions “to” or “for.” To provide (something) to or for (someone) means that you deliver or give something to someone. For example, “The company provides health insurance to all of its employees.” In this example, we also could have said “The company provides health insurance for all of its employees.” Both of these sentences are correct, but it is more common to use “provide (something) for” than “provide (something to)” someone. English prepositions can be difficult, even for native speakers! But we hope that we have been able to provide some assistance.
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