The English language, with its nuances and intricacies, often presents us with prepositional puzzles. One common question is: Which Preposition Is Used With Entrusted? Understanding the correct preposition is crucial for clear and effective communication, ensuring your message is accurately conveyed and avoids ambiguity.
Deciphering the Entrusted Preposition: ‘With’ or ‘To’?
The verb “entrust” generally takes two prepositions: “with” and “to.” However, their usage depends on what is being entrusted and to whom. The most common and generally accepted preposition used with “entrusted” is “with,” particularly when referring to entrusting someone with a responsibility, task, or object. This construction signifies that someone is being given the responsibility or care of something.
Consider these examples:
- She was entrusted with the secret recipe.
- The company entrusted him with managing the project.
- He entrusted her with his valuable collection of stamps.
In these cases, “with” highlights the transfer of responsibility or care. A less common, but still valid usage is “entrusted to.” This construction is typically used when describing who or what is receiving the trust. For example:
- The funds were entrusted to a reputable charity.
- The package was entrusted to the delivery service.
| Preposition | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| With | Entrusting someone with a task, responsibility, or object | She was entrusted with the key. |
| To | Entrusting something to an organization or entity | The decision was entrusted to the committee. |
While both “with” and “to” can be used, “with” is far more prevalent when the object of the preposition is a person. In essence, “entrusted with” focuses on the responsibility given, while “entrusted to” highlights the recipient of the trust. Pay close attention to the context and intended meaning to select the most appropriate preposition.
For more in-depth examples of how to use “entrusted” with the correct preposition, take a look at the comprehensive resources available at reputable grammar and style guides. They offer a plethora of information to help you master the nuances of the English language!