Mastering the Preposition “To”: A Comprehensive Guide

The preposition “to” is one of the most versatile and frequently used words in the English language. Understanding its various functions and nuances is crucial for clear and effective communication.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the preposition “to,” covering its definitions, structural uses, different categories, usage rules, common mistakes, and advanced topics. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will help you master the preposition “to” and improve your overall English proficiency.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Definition of “To”
3. Structural Breakdown
4. Types and Categories of “To”
   • “To” Indicating Direction
   • “To” Indicating Purpose (Infinitive of Purpose)
   • “To” Indicating Recipient (Indirect Object)
   • “To” Indicating Limit or Extent
   • “To” Indicating Time
   • “To” Indicating Relationship or Comparison
   • “To” in Fixed Expressions
5. Examples of “To” in Different Contexts
6. Usage Rules for “To”
7. Common Mistakes with “To”
8. Practice Exercises
9. Advanced Topics
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
11. Conclusion

Definition of “To”

The preposition “to” is a versatile word that primarily indicates direction, purpose, or relationship. It is a closed-class word, meaning it belongs to a small group of words (prepositions) that have grammatical functions rather than descriptive content.

“To” typically precedes a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase, forming a prepositional phrase. Understanding its various roles is crucial for mastering English grammar.

As a preposition, “to” connects a noun or pronoun to another word in the sentence, showing the relationship between them. This relationship can indicate movement towards something, the purpose of an action, the recipient of something, a limit, or a connection. It also functions as the sign of the infinitive form of a verb (e.g., to be, to go, to eat). The context determines the specific meaning of “to”.

Structural Breakdown

The basic structure involving “to” as a preposition is quite simple: “to + noun/pronoun/noun phrase.” This prepositional phrase then modifies another element in the sentence, providing additional information about direction, purpose, etc.

When “to” marks an infinitive, the structure is “to + base form of the verb.” This infinitive phrase can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb within the sentence, depending on its role.

Here are some examples to illustrate these structures:

• To + Noun: I went to the store.
• To + Pronoun: He gave the book to her.
• To + Noun Phrase: They traveled to a small village.
• To + Verb (Infinitive): She likes to sing.

Types and Categories of “To”

The preposition “to” has several distinct uses, each conveying a different meaning. Understanding these categories will help you use “to” correctly in various contexts.

“To” Indicating Direction

One of the most common uses of “to” is to indicate movement or direction towards a specific place or object. It shows where someone or something is going.

Examples:

• I am going to the park.
• The train travels to Chicago.
• She walked to the library.

“To” Indicating Purpose (Infinitive of Purpose)

When “to” is followed by a verb, it often indicates the purpose or reason for doing something. This is known as the infinitive of purpose.

Examples:

• I went to the store to buy milk.
• She studies hard to get good grades.
• He exercises to stay healthy.

“To” Indicating Recipient (Indirect Object)

“To” is used to indicate the recipient of something, often with verbs like give, send, show, and tell. This usage introduces the indirect object.

Examples:

• I gave the book to my friend.
• She sent a letter to her mother.
• He showed the picture to the class.

“To” Indicating Limit or Extent

“To” can also indicate a limit or extent, showing the range or boundary of something.

Examples:

• The temperature rose to 100 degrees.
• They worked from morning to night.
• He counted from one to ten.

“To” Indicating Time

In expressions of time, “to” indicates the number of minutes before the hour.

Examples:

• It’s ten to five. (4:50)
• It’s quarter to eight. (7:45)
• It’s five to twelve. (11:55)

“To” Indicating Relationship or Comparison

“To” can express a relationship or comparison between two things.

Examples:

• She is married to him.
• According to the report, the economy is improving.
• Compared to last year, sales are up.

“To” in Fixed Expressions

Many idiomatic expressions use “to.” These expressions often have meanings that are not immediately obvious from the individual words.

Examples:

• I am used to waking up early.
• He is addicted to coffee.
• She is looking forward to the party.

Examples of “To” in Different Contexts

To further illustrate the various uses of “to,” here are several tables with examples categorized by function.

The following table provides examples of “to” indicating direction. Notice how “to” always precedes a noun or noun phrase specifying the destination.

Category	Example Sentence
Direction	I’m driving to California next week.
Direction	The birds flew to the south for the winter.
Direction	We hiked to the top of the mountain.
Direction	She sailed her boat to a deserted island.
Direction	The package was delivered to the wrong address.
Direction	He is traveling to Europe this summer.
Direction	The river flows to the sea.
Direction	They are moving to a new house.
Direction	She went to the dentist yesterday.
Direction	The road leads to the city center.
Direction	He is commuting to work every day.
Direction	The refugees fled to a safer country.
Direction	She is returning to her hometown.
Direction	The parcel was sent to the customer.
Direction	They are relocating to a different state.
Direction	He is cycling to the park.
Direction	The stream runs to the lake.
Direction	She is walking to the store.
Direction	The letter was addressed to him.
Direction	They are transferring to another department.
Direction	He is flying to Japan.
Direction	The path goes to the forest.
Direction	She is driving to the countryside.
Direction	The invitation was sent to all members.
Direction	They are migrating to a warmer climate.

This table shows examples of “to” used to indicate purpose. Observe how “to” is followed by the base form of the verb, forming an infinitive of purpose.

Category	Example Sentence
Purpose	I went to the gym to work out.
Purpose	She studies every night to improve her grades.
Purpose	He saved money to buy a new car.
Purpose	They traveled to Italy to see the Colosseum.
Purpose	She went to the library to borrow a book.
Purpose	I called him to ask about the meeting.
Purpose	She practices piano to become a better musician.
Purpose	He exercises regularly to maintain his health.
Purpose	They are saving up to go on vacation.
Purpose	She writes in her journal to express her thoughts.
Purpose	I am learning Spanish to communicate with my neighbors.
Purpose	She volunteers at the shelter to help animals.
Purpose	He is taking a course to learn new skills.
Purpose	They are renovating their house to increase its value.
Purpose	She is attending the conference to network with professionals.
Purpose	I am reading this book to understand the subject better.
Purpose	She is taking singing lessons to improve her voice.
Purpose	He is working overtime to earn extra money.
Purpose	They are planning a party to celebrate their anniversary.
Purpose	She is writing a letter to thank her friend.
Purpose	I am studying grammar to improve my writing.
Purpose	She is going to the market to buy fresh produce.
Purpose	He is attending a seminar to learn about new technologies.
Purpose	They are organizing a fundraiser to support the charity.
Purpose	She is practicing yoga to relax her mind.

This table illustrates the use of “to” when indicating the recipient of an action or object. “To” connects the verb to the indirect object, showing who receives the direct object.

Category	Example Sentence
Recipient	I gave the flowers to my mother.
Recipient	She sent a postcard to her friend.
Recipient	He told the story to the children.
Recipient	They showed the pictures to their relatives.
Recipient	She read the letter to her husband.
Recipient	I lent my car to my brother.
Recipient	She offered her help to the elderly woman.
Recipient	He sold his old books to the bookstore.
Recipient	They donated money to the charity.
Recipient	She passed the ball to her teammate.
Recipient	I wrote an email to my professor.
Recipient	She baked cookies to her neighbors.
Recipient	He taught the class to the students.
Recipient	They provided food to the homeless.
Recipient	She sang a song to her baby.
Recipient	I forwarded the message to my colleague.
Recipient	She knitted a scarf to her daughter.
Recipient	He explained the problem to the customer.
Recipient	They offered assistance to the stranded travelers.
Recipient	She dedicated the poem to her mentor.
Recipient	I sent a package to my grandmother.
Recipient	She gave a presentation to the audience.
Recipient	He showed his artwork to the gallery owner.
Recipient	They provided shelter to the refugees.
Recipient	She told a secret to her best friend.

The table below shows examples of “to” indicating a limit or extent. Here, “to” defines the upper or lower boundary of a range or scale.

Category	Example Sentence
Limit/Extent	The price ranges from $10 to $50.
Limit/Extent	The meeting lasted from 2 PM to 4 PM.
Limit/Extent	He counted from one to one hundred.
Limit/Extent	She traveled from London to Paris.
Limit/Extent	The store is open from Monday to Friday.
Limit/Extent	The water level rose to the danger mark.
Limit/Extent	The project will run from January to June.
Limit/Extent	The survey covered people aged 18 to 65.
Limit/Extent	The concert is scheduled from 7 PM to 10 PM.
Limit/Extent	The discount applies to items up to $200.
Limit/Extent	The marathon runs from the city center to the park.
Limit/Extent	The course covers chapters one to five.
Limit/Extent	The sale is valid from today to next week.
Limit/Extent	The temperature dropped to freezing point.
Limit/Extent	The exhibition is open from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Limit/Extent	The road stretches from the village to the mountains.
Limit/Extent	The show is broadcast from Monday to Sunday.
Limit/Extent	The program caters to children aged 5 to 12.
Limit/Extent	The festival lasts from the beginning to the end of the month.
Limit/Extent	The river flows from the source to the mouth.
Limit/Extent	The stock price fluctuated from $20 to $30.
Limit/Extent	The training program covers levels one to three.
Limit/Extent	The offer is available from now to the end of the year.
Limit/Extent	The pressure increased to a dangerous level.
Limit/Extent	The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday.

Usage Rules for “To”

While “to” is common, its correct usage can be tricky. Here are some essential rules and considerations:

• Direction: Use “to” to indicate movement toward a specific location. Example: I am going to the beach.
• Infinitive: Use “to” before the base form of a verb to form an infinitive. Example: I want to eat.
• Recipient: Use “to” to indicate who or what receives something. Example: I gave the gift to my sister. Note that sometimes the “to” can be omitted if the recipient is placed directly after the verb: I gave my sister the gift.
• Time: Use “to” to express minutes before the hour. Example: It’s ten to six.
• Fixed Expressions: Be mindful of fixed expressions that require “to”. Example: I am looking forward to seeing you. (Note: Even though “seeing” is a gerund, the “to” is part of the phrasal verb “look forward to.”)

Exceptions and Special Cases:

• With the verb “suggest,” it’s generally better to use “that” clause instead of “to.” Instead of “I suggested to go to the movies,” say “I suggested that we go to the movies.”
• After modal verbs (can, could, should, would, may, might, must), do not use “to.” Example: I should go, not I should to go.
• Be aware of phrasal verbs that include “to” as part of the verb (e.g., “look forward to”, “get used to”). The “to” in these cases is part of the verb, not a separate preposition.

Common Mistakes with “To”

Learners often make mistakes with “to.” Here are some common errors and how to correct them:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
I want that you go.	I want you to go.	“To” is needed to form the infinitive “to go.”
I should to go.	I should go.	“To” is not used after modal verbs.
I am interesting to learn English.	I am interested in learning English.	The correct idiom is “interested in.”
I look forward to meet you.	I look forward to meeting you.	After “look forward to,” use the gerund (verb + -ing).
He suggested to go.	He suggested that we go.	Use a “that” clause after “suggest.”
I went there for see him.	I went there to see him.	“To” is used to indicate purpose with the infinitive form.
She needs that I help her.	She needs me to help her.	Use “to” before the infinitive phrase.
They decided go home.	They decided to go home.	“To” is required to form the infinitive “to go.”
He is agree with me.	He agrees with me. / He is in agreement with me.	“Agree” is a verb; the preposition “to” is not needed.
I prefer coffee than tea.	I prefer coffee to tea.	The correct construction is “prefer X to Y.”

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of “to” with these exercises. Fill in the blanks with the correct use of “to” or leave it blank if not needed.

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks with “to” where necessary.

Question	Answer
1. I am going ____ the store.	to
2. She wants ____ learn Spanish.	to
3. He gave the book ____ his sister.	to
4. It is ten ____ six.	to
5. I should ____ study more.	(leave blank)
6. They decided ____ go home early.	to
7. She is addicted ____ chocolate.	to
8. I prefer tea ____ coffee.	to
9. He suggested ____ go to the park.	that we
10. I am looking forward ____ seeing you.	to

Exercise 2: Choose the correct option.

Question	Options	Answer
1. I need ____ the doctor.	a) to see b) see c) seeing	a) to see
2. She is used ____ waking up early.	a) to b) to to c) at	a) to
3. He is going ____ Italy next month.	a) to b) at c) in	a) to
4. They are planning ____ a party.	a) to have b) have c) having	a) to have
5. She gave the keys ____ me.	a) to b) for c) with	a) to
6. It’s a quarter ____ nine.	a) to b) past c) after	a) to
7. I am interested ____ learning new things.	a) to b) in c) at	b) in
8. He prefers reading ____ watching TV.	a) than b) to c) over	b) to
9. I advised him ____ take a break.	a) to b) that he c) for	a) to
10. They look forward ____ the holidays.	a) to b) at c) in	a) to

Exercise 3: Correct the sentences (if they are incorrect).

Question	Answer
1. I should to go home now.	I should go home now.
2. She wants that he helps her.	She wants him to help her.
3. He is interesting to learn about history.	He is interested in learning about history.
4. I look forward to meet you soon.	I look forward to meeting you soon.
5. They decided go to the beach.	They decided to go to the beach.
6. It is important to you study hard.	It is important for you to study hard.
7. I am used to drive on the left.	I am used to driving on the left.
8. He suggested to visit the museum.	He suggested that we visit the museum.
9. She prefers tea than coffee.	She prefers tea to coffee.
10. I need that you call me.	I need you to call me.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, understanding more nuanced uses of “to” is essential. This includes recognizing subtle differences in meaning and usage in complex sentences and idiomatic expressions.

Ellipsis with “To”: Sometimes, the verb after “to” is omitted when it is understood from the context. For example, “I want to go, but I don’t have time to.” (The second “go” is understood.)

“To” with Passive Voice: “To” can be used in passive voice constructions to indicate the recipient of an action. For example, “The award was given to her.”

“To” in Complex Sentence Structures: In more complex sentences, “to” can be part of embedded clauses or phrases, requiring careful analysis to understand its function. For example, “The best way to learn is to practice regularly.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the preposition “to”:

1. When should I use “to” before a verb?
   Use “to” before the base form of a verb to create an infinitive. Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs in a sentence. For example, “I like to sing” (noun), “I need a book to read” (adjective), “I study hard to pass the exam” (adverb).
2. What is the difference between “to,” “too,” and “two”?
   “To” is a preposition or part of an infinitive. “Too” means “also” or “excessively.” “Two” is the number 2. They are homophones (sound alike) but have different meanings and spellings. Example: “I am going to the store, too. I need two apples.”
3. Can I end a sentence with “to”?
   Yes, it is grammatically acceptable to end a sentence with “to,” especially when the verb is understood from the context. This is called “stranded preposition.” For example, “Where are you going?” “I’m going to the store.” (Or, more informally, “I’m going to.”).
4. How do I know when to use “to” for direction vs. purpose?
   If “to” is followed by a noun or noun phrase indicating a place, it shows direction. If “to” is followed by a verb, it indicates purpose (infinitive of purpose). Example: “I went to the park” (direction). “I went to the park to relax” (purpose).
5. What are some common fixed expressions with “to”?
   Common fixed expressions include “look forward to,” “get used to,” “be accustomed to,” “be committed to,” “be opposed to,” and “according to.” Note that the “to” in these expressions is part of the phrase, and often followed by a gerund (verb + -ing).
6. Is it always necessary to use “to” before the indirect object?
   No, you can often omit “to” if the indirect object comes directly after the verb. For example, both “I gave the book to my friend” and “I gave my friend the book” are correct. The second construction is more common when the indirect object is short.
7. Why is “to” sometimes followed by a gerund (verb + -ing)?
   In certain fixed expressions (like “look forward to” or “be used to”), “to” functions as part of the phrase and is followed by a gerund. In these cases, “to” is not part of an infinitive.
8. How does the use of “to” change in formal vs. informal writing?
   In formal writing, avoid ending sentences with prepositions (“stranded prepositions”) when possible. However, in informal writing and everyday speech, ending a sentence with “to” is common and acceptable.

Conclusion

Mastering the preposition “to” is essential for building a strong foundation in English grammar. Its diverse functions, from indicating direction and purpose to marking infinitives and forming fixed expressions, make it a crucial element in effective communication.

By understanding the rules, recognizing common mistakes, and practicing regularly, you can confidently use “to” in a variety of contexts.

Remember to pay attention to the specific context and the surrounding words to determine the correct usage of “to.” Keep practicing with different exercises and real-life examples to reinforce your understanding. With consistent effort, you will master the nuances of “to” and enhance your overall English proficiency.