Which Is the Correct Preposition to Use with Update?(ON, OF, TO, WITH or ABOUT)

When it comes to updating someone on a situation, choosing the correct preposition can be a bit tricky. We often use the verb “update” to inform someone about a current or future status. However, the preposition used after the verb can change the context of the sentence.

There are several prepositions that can be used with “update,” such as “on,” “of,” “to,” “with,” and “about.” Each preposition can slightly alter the meaning of the sentence. For instance, “update on” is often used when looking for a status update, whereas “update about” can be used to provide general information about a situation.

It’s important to choose the correct preposition when using “update” to ensure that the intended meaning is conveyed. In this article, we will explore the different prepositions that can be used with “update” and provide examples of when to use each one.

Understanding the Importance of Prepositions

What are Prepositions?

Prepositions are words that show the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in a sentence. They are used to indicate direction, time, place, location, spatial relationships, or to introduce an object. Examples of prepositions include words like “in,” “at,” “on,” “of,” and “to.”

Why are Prepositions Important with Update?

Using the correct preposition is important in updates because it can completely change the meaning of the sentence. For example, saying “Update on the project” implies that there is new information about the project, while saying “Update of the project” implies that the project itself has been updated.

Here are some examples of updates with different prepositions:

As you can see, using the correct preposition is crucial in conveying the intended meaning of an update. It is important to understand the different prepositions that can be used with update and choose the correct one based on the context.

Common Prepositions Used with Update

Update ON

When we use “Update on,” we are typically asking for a status update. This preposition is used when we want to know the current or future situation. Here are a few examples:

• Can you give me an update on the prisoner’s movements?
• I’ll keep you updated on the progress of the project.
• Please provide an update on the status of the shipment.

Update OF

“Update of” is used when we want to indicate what has been changed or modified. Here are some examples:

• The software update of the application has fixed several bugs.
• Please provide an update of the new features added to the product.
• Can you give me an update of the changes made to the project plan?

Update TO

“Update to” is used when we want to indicate that something has been brought up to date. Here are some examples:

• The system update to the latest version has improved the performance.
• Please update your records to reflect the new address.
• We need to update the website to make it more user-friendly.

Update WITH

“Update with” is used when we want to indicate what has been added or included. Here are some examples:

• The report has been updated with the latest data.
• Please update the document with the new information.
• The presentation has been updated with additional slides.

Update ABOUT

“Update about” is used when we want to provide information about something(similar to “update on”). Here are some examples:

• Please update me about the meeting that took place yesterday.
• We will update you about the progress of the investigation.
• Please provide an update about the status of the project.

Remember, the preposition used with “update” can change the context of the sentence. It is important to choose the correct preposition to convey the intended meaning.

Tips for Choosing the Correct Preposition

Choosing the correct preposition to use with “Update” can be tricky, but it is important to use the right one to convey the intended meaning accurately. Here are some tips to help you choose the correct preposition:

• Consider the context: Different prepositions can be used with “Update” depending on the context. For example, “Update on” is often used when looking for a status update, while “Update with” is used when providing new information.
• Think about the intended meaning: Each preposition can convey a slightly different meaning. For example, “Update about” suggests providing general information, while “Update with” suggests providing specific information.
• Check grammar rules: There are grammar rules that can help you determine which preposition to use. For example, “Update on” is often used when discussing a topic, while “Update with” is used when discussing a person.

Conclusion

Using the correct preposition when updating someone or something is important to ensure clear communication. The prepositions “on,” “of,” “to,” “with,” and “about” can all be used with “update,” but the context can vary slightly.

“Update on” is commonly used when looking for a status update or to know the current or future situation. For example, “Can you give me an update on the prisoner’s movements?”

“Update of” is used when referring to a change or addition to something. For example, “I need to give you an update of the changes made to the project.”

“Update to” is used when referring to a change that has been made or will be made. For example, “I need to update you to let you know that the meeting has been rescheduled.”

“Update with” is used when referring to additional information that is being provided. For example, “I need to update you with the latest sales figures.”

“Update about” is used when referring to a general update or when providing information about a specific topic. For example, “I need to update you about the new company policy.”

It is important to note that ending a sentence with a preposition is permissible in the English language, despite the idea that it should be avoided originating with writers Joshua Poole and John Dryden, who were trying to align the language with Latin.

Overall, using the correct preposition with “update” can help ensure clear communication and avoid confusion. By understanding the context in which each preposition is used, you can confidently use “update” in your everyday conversations and written communication.