attack + object
Directly target someone or something
Attack usually takes a direct object.
Hackers attacked the network overnight.
Attack with prepositions
Attack commonly takes a direct object. Some prepositions add specific meanings such as method or target.
Quick answer
Which prepositions work with attack?
Use attack someone or something directly. Attack on is common with nouns, especially in “an attack on”. Attack with introduces a weapon or method. By often introduces the attacker in passive sentences.
The troops attacked the city at dawn.
They attacked with sharp criticism.
They attacked with sharp criticism.
Choose the pattern by meaning
These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.
attack with + weapon or method
Show the means of attack
With introduces the tool, weapon, or style.
The lawyer attacked with detailed evidence.
attack on + target
Use in noun-style expressions
On is common after the noun attack rather than the verb.
The speech was seen as an attack on academic freedom.
attacked by + agent
Passive voice pattern
By introduces the attacker in passive sentences.
The village was attacked by pirates.
See the difference in context
The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.
Construction
Example
Meaning
attack + object
They attacked the proposal.
Standard active-voice verb pattern.
attack with
He attacked with sarcasm.
Shows method or weapon.
attack on
The article was an attack on the policy.
More common with the noun attack.
attack for
They attacked for money.
Possible when for expresses motive, not a fixed pattern.
Common mistakes
Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.
Using attack on after the verb
After the verb, a direct object is usually better.
✕ They attacked on the base. ✓ They attacked the base.Confusing verb and noun patterns
Attack on is common with the noun attack.
✕ The army attacked on civilians. ✓ The army attacked civilians.Quick practice
Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.
1. The critics attacked the plan ___ strong language.
2. The town was attacked ___ rebels.
3. Which is most natural?
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Frequently asked questions
Does attack need a preposition?
Usually no. It commonly takes a direct object.
When do we use attack with?
Use it to describe a weapon, tool, or method.
Is attack on correct?
Yes, especially after the noun attack, as in “an attack on the system”.
Related preposition guides
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