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Which Preposition Is Used With 'High'?

Published in English Prepositions 2 mins read

The word "high" can be used with a variety of prepositions, depending on its grammatical function and the specific meaning intended. There isn't just one preposition that exclusively pairs with "high"; its usage is highly contextual.

"High" can act as an adjective (e.g., a high building), an adverb (e.g., fly high), or even a noun (e.g., from on high). The choice of preposition is determined by what "high" is modifying or relating to within the sentence.

Prepositions Commonly Used with 'High'

Based on linguistic analysis, "high" can be effectively combined with numerous prepositions. The following table highlights some of these pairings:

Preposition Phrase
at high at
before high before
beyond high beyond
by high by

Understanding Contextual Usage

The specific preposition chosen often clarifies the relationship "high" has to another element in the sentence, indicating location, time, state, or manner. Here are some examples illustrating various prepositions used with "high":

  • Location:
    • "The flag was flying high above the building." (Indicates position over something)
    • "The birds nest high in the tree." (Indicates position within something)
    • "The water level rose high on the bank." (Indicates position touching a surface)
  • Level or Degree:
    • "Expectations were running high for the new product." (Indicates a high level concerning something)
    • "She was feeling high from the success of her project." (Indicates a state resulting from something)
    • "The price of oil is high by historical standards." (Indicates comparison to a standard)
  • Time:
    • "The sun was high at noon." (Indicates a specific point in time)
  • Abstract Concepts:
    • "His ambitions soar high beyond our imagination." (Indicates a degree exceeding a limit)

Understanding the different roles "high" can play and the relationships prepositions convey is key to using them correctly. The versatility of "high" allows it to be combined with a wide array of prepositions to express precise meanings.