Today we're working on complex prepositions (in spite of, according to, due to) and cohesion phrases (in terms of, with regard to) so you can link ideas smoothly and sound more sophisticated when you speak and write.
What do you already know?
Think about these questions. Say your answers out loud — don't write them down.
→ What prepositions do you use most in English?Try to name 5 or 6. Take 30 seconds.
→ How do you connect two ideas when you speak?For example: "I love swimming. ____ the cold water."
→ Do you know any "two-word" or "three-word" prepositions?Examples: "in spite of", "according to", "because of"
What you'll do today
By the end, you'll be able to:
Use 5 complex prepositions confidently in speech
Know which preposition to choose for the idea you want to express
Link ideas together naturally — so your speech flows
Sound more academic and sophisticated
Five Complex Prepositions
These are multi-word prepositions. They're more formal and expressive than single prepositions like "because" or "about".
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Linking Ideas
Complex prepositions are 2–4 words that work as a single unit. They're formal, precise, and perfect for B2 speaking because they show you understand how ideas connect.
Preposition
Meaning
Example
in spite of
Even though; although
"In spite of the rain, she went jogging."
due to
Because of; caused by
"The flight was delayed due to technical issues."
according to
As stated by; in the opinion of
"According to experts, sleep is crucial."
in addition to
Besides; as well as; plus
"In addition to maths, she studies history."
as a result of
Because of; caused by
"As a result of the pandemic, work changed."
Hear them in sentences
Listen: "In spite of feeling tired, I enjoyed the film."
Analysis: The speaker was tired (Problem) BUT went to the film anyway (Contrast). "In spite of" shows contrast.
Listen: "Due to poor planning, the project failed."
Listen: "According to research, coffee improves focus."
Analysis: Someone (research) says something. The speaker is reporting what others say. "According to" introduces a source.
Icon Legend
⚖️
Contrast
Shows opposing ideas
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Cause
Shows why something happened
🎤
Source
Shows who said it
➕
Addition
Shows extra information
Cohesion: Linking Ideas Smoothly
Cohesion means your ideas flow together. These phrases help you show HOW ideas relate to each other.
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Smooth Flow
Cohesive phrases help your listener follow your thinking. They're like signposts: "Now I'm going to talk about another aspect..." or "Let me explain this from a different angle."
Phrase
Function
Example
in terms of
Introducing how to measure or view something
"In terms of cost, this option is cheaper."
with regard to
Concerning; about (formal perspective)
"With regard to your question, I think..."
in relation to
Showing how two things connect
"In relation to the original plan, we've made changes."
on behalf of
Speaking or acting for someone else
"On behalf of the team, I'd like to thank you."
Your turn: Spot the phrase
Read these sentences. Which cohesion phrase is used? Say the answer out loud, then reveal.
"With regard to climate change, scientists have strong evidence."
Phrase: "with regard to" — Introduces the topic/perspective.
"In terms of speed, electric cars are becoming more competitive."
Phrase: "in terms of" — Shows HOW to measure (by speed).
"In relation to last year's data, this year shows improvement."
Phrase: "in relation to" — Connects two things for comparison.
"On behalf of the school, I welcome our new students."
Phrase: "on behalf of" — Speaking for a group.
Listen: How they sound
"In terms of the future of this project, we need to decide budget and timeline. With regard to the budget, I think we should increase it. In relation to previous years, this is a significant change."
Notice how these phrases break up your speech into clear topics. Your listener can follow you.
Listen & Analyze
Here's a model conversation using both complex prepositions and cohesion phrases. Listen and notice where they appear and why.
Model Dialogue
A: "What did you think about the conference?"
B: "Well, in spite of the long commute, I found it valuable.In terms of content, there were three strong sessions."
A: "Which was best?"
B: "The morning one on climate policy. According to the speakers, renewable energy will be 60% cheaper by 2030.With regard to job creation, they emphasized the new opportunities."
A: "Will there be another conference?"
B: "Yes. As a result of the positive feedback, they're planning one next year.In addition to the main sessions, there will be workshops.On behalf of the organizing committee, I'd recommend you attend.""
What's happening?
Contrast & Cause (yellow)
These show why the speaker feels this way despite something difficult.
Cohesion (blue)
These organize the speaker's thoughts into clear topics.
Underline & Speak
Read the model dialogue above out loud. Which phrase did you hear most? Where did it feel natural?
Your Turn: Speak
You'll answer one of these questions. Use at least 3 complex prepositions or cohesion phrases. Speak for 1–2 minutes. No notes.
→ Prompt 1: A Challenge You Overcame
Describe a difficult situation you faced. Use "in spite of", "due to", or "as a result of" to explain.
→ Prompt 2: Your Opinion on a Topic
Pick a topic (work, education, technology, travel). Explain your view using "in terms of", "with regard to", or "in relation to".
→ Prompt 3: Recommending Something
Recommend a book, film, course, or experience. Use "according to", "in addition to", or "on behalf of".
Checklist while you speak
Remember: Focus on your message, not perfection. The prepositions should feel natural, not forced.
← Click a prompt above to begin
Build Your Own Sentences
Complete these sentence starters. Write one or two sentences for each. Then you'll review them.
1. In spite of...
2. Due to / As a result of...
3. According to...
4. In terms of / With regard to...
5. In addition to / On behalf of...
Now Read Aloud
Once you've written all five, read each sentence aloud. Does it sound natural? Does your preposition choice make sense?
What You Can Do Now
You said you'd be able to:
Use 5 complex prepositions confidently in speech ✓
Know which preposition to choose for the idea you want to express ✓
Link ideas together naturally — so your speech flows ✓
Sound more academic and sophisticated ✓
Quick Recap Table
When you want to...
Use this
Show contrast (despite something)
in spite of
Show cause/reason
due to / as a result of
Introduce a source or opinion
according to
Add extra information
in addition to
Show perspective/aspect
in terms of / with regard to
Show connection between ideas
in relation to
Speak for someone else
on behalf of
Reflection
Think about these questions — answer out loud:
→ Which preposition felt easiest today?That's your strength — use it more.
→ Which one felt hardest?That's your next focus — try it again next week.
→ When could you use these in real life?Work conversations? Presentations? Casual chat?
Next Time
Bring these prepositions into your everyday speaking. Notice them in podcasts, videos, and news articles. The more you hear and use them, the more natural they'll become.
Your Goal for Next Lesson:
Use at least one complex preposition in your speaking every day. Track which ones you use. Bring them back here next week and we'll build on them.