Formal prepositional phrases replace simple prepositions in academic and professional writing. These multi-word expressions (in the course of, in the event of, on the basis of) create a more formal, precise tone.
Quick tip: Learn these phrases as fixed units. Pay attention to which preposition goes with which phrase (in the event OF, in accordance WITH, with a view TO).
Time and duration phrases
Use in the course of for 'during/throughout' a period.
In the course of the meeting, several issues arose.
Changes occurred in the course of the century.
In the course of our research, we discovered...
Circumstance and condition phrases
Use in the face of (despite), in the absence of (without), in the event of (if).
The project succeeded in the face of challenges.
The decision was made in the absence of data.
In the event of emergency, exit immediately.
Reason and basis phrases
Use in the light of (considering), on the grounds of (because of), on the basis of (based on).
In the light of new evidence, we must reconsider.
The claim was rejected on the grounds of insufficient proof.
Conclusions were drawn on the basis of the data.
Method and purpose phrases
Use by means of (through), with a view to (in order to), in accordance with (following).
Agreement was reached by means of negotiation.
The policy was implemented with a view to improving efficiency.
Research was conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines.
Common mistakes
Not "In the event for budget cuts..." — say "In the event of budget cuts...". The phrase is 'in the event OF' not 'for'.
Not "In accordance to the rules..." — say "In accordance with the rules...". The phrase is 'in accordance WITH' not 'to'.
Not "With a view of improving..." — say "With a view to improving...". The phrase is 'with a view TO' + gerund.
Not "On the basis to the data..." — say "On the basis of the data...". The phrase is 'on the basis OF' not 'to'.
Practise it
Replace simple prepositions in your writing: 'during' → 'in the course of'; 'because of' → 'on the grounds of'; 'based on' → 'on the basis of'.