Verbs with no preposition (discuss, marry, enter, lack)

2 min read

Some English verbs are often used incorrectly with a preposition (like about, with, or to). In many languages, a preposition is required, but in English these verbs are followed directly by the thing or person (the direct object), with no preposition.

1. Discuss (NOT “discuss about”)

Use discuss directly with the topic.

We need to discuss the problem.
They discussed the plan yesterday.
❌ discuss about the problem

2. Marry (NOT “marry with”)

Use marry directly with the person.

She married him last year.
They want to marry each other.
❌ marry with someone

Note: “get married to” is correct, but that’s a different structure.

She got married to him.

3. Enter (NOT “enter to / into”)

Use enter directly with the place.

He entered the room.
She entered the building.
❌ enter into the room

Note: “enter into” exists, but only for agreements or discussions: enter into a contract.

4. Lack (NOT “lack of” as a verb)

Use lack directly with the thing that is missing.

The team lacks experience.
He lacks confidence.
❌ lacks of experience

Note: “lack of” is correct when “lack” is a noun (a thing), usually after a or the:

There is a lack of communication.

Key idea

These verbs take a direct object.
No preposition is needed after them.

💡 Tip

If the verb already connects directly to the object → don’t add a preposition.
Common mistake: adding “about,” “with,” or “to” when they are not needed.

Test your knowledge 📝

Question 1 sur 10Score: 0/10

We need to ___ the issue before making a decision.

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