Correct Preposition Usage for Eligible

This question asks us to find the most suitable preposition to complete the sentence: "He is not eligible ____________ this post." The word eligible means having the right or qualification to do or obtain something.

Understanding Preposition Choice

Choosing the correct preposition is crucial for clear and grammatically sound sentences. The preposition that follows eligible often depends on what follows it.

• When we talk about the qualification or the thing someone is suitable for, we typically use the preposition 'for'. Examples include: eligible for the job, eligible for a loan, eligible for membership.
• When eligible is followed by a verb in its infinitive form (to + verb), we use the preposition 'to'. Examples include: eligible to vote, eligible to apply, eligible to receive the award.

Analyzing the Options

Let's examine why the other options are less suitable:

• 'with': The preposition with is generally used to show accompaniment, possession, or the means by which something is done. It doesn't fit the context of qualification for a post. Example: "He came with his friend."
• 'by': The preposition by typically indicates the agent performing an action, the method, or proximity. It doesn't connect eligible to the post correctly. Example: "The book was written by her."
• 'to': While eligible can be followed by to + verb (e.g., eligible to compete), it is not the standard preposition used when referring to a noun like 'post' or 'position' that represents the opportunity itself.
• 'for': This preposition correctly links the state of being eligible with the specific opportunity, which is 'this post'. The sentence structure requires specifying what the person is qualified or unqualified *for*.

Conclusion

Therefore, the most appropriate preposition to complete the sentence "He is not eligible ____________ this post" is 'for', as it correctly indicates the position or opportunity for which eligibility is being discussed.

The completed sentence is: He is not eligible for this post.