Understanding the Correct Preposition for 'Accused'

This question tests your knowledge of standard English prepositions used with the verb 'accuse'. The correct preposition helps form a common and grammatically sound phrase.

Analyzing the Sentence Structure

The sentence is "He was accused ____________ theft." We need to find the preposition that correctly links the accusation to the alleged crime, which is 'theft'.

Preposition Usage with 'Accuse'

In English grammar, the standard and idiomatic preposition to use after 'accuse' when specifying the offense is 'of'. The structure is typically:

• Subject + be accused + of + offense/crime

For example: She was accused of cheating.

Evaluating the Options

Let's look at why the other options are less suitable:

• Option 1: with - 'Accused with' is generally not used to specify the crime itself. It might be used in different contexts, like "He was accused with a weapon", but not for the act.
• Option 2: by - 'Accused by' indicates the person or entity making the accusation (e.g., "He was accused by the police"). It doesn't specify the crime.
• Option 4: for - While 'for' is used in many contexts to indicate reason or purpose, it is not the standard preposition following 'accuse' when naming the crime. You might say "He was arrested for theft," but not "accused for theft."
• Option 3: of - This is the correct preposition. The phrase "accused of theft" follows the standard grammatical pattern.

Conclusion

The most appropriate preposition to complete the sentence "He was accused ____________ theft" is 'of', forming the correct phrase "accused of theft".