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Prepositions after verbs

Using 'rape' with prepositions

The verb rape usually takes a direct object without a preposition. Prepositions such as by or in often belong to related passive or contextual phrases.

Quick answer

Common patterns with 'rape'

English normally uses rape with a direct object: rape someone. In passive structures, by names the offender: be raped by someone. In can introduce a place, time, or context: raped in prison.

The man was raped by another inmate
She was raped in a conflict zone
The attacker raped the victim
Several crimes were committed in the camp

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
rape + person

Using a direct object

The verb usually takes a direct object without a following preposition.

The criminal raped the victim
He was convicted of raping two women
2
be raped by + offender

Naming the offender in passive voice

By introduces the person who committed the crime in passive constructions.

She was raped by a neighbour
The victim was raped by an armed group
3
raped in + place or context

Showing location or situation

In introduces the place, institution, or broader situation where the crime occurred.

The assault happened after she was raped in detention
Victims were raped in occupied territories

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
rape by
The victim was raped by a stranger.
by belongs to a passive structure naming the offender
rape in
She was raped in prison.
in introduces the location or context
rape + object
The offender raped the victim.
standard active structure without a preposition

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Adding an unnecessary preposition in active voice

The verb usually takes a direct object directly.

✕ He raped on the victim. ✓ He raped the victim.

Using 'by' in active voice

By is mainly used in passive structures.

✕ The attacker raped by the victim. ✓ The victim was raped by the attacker.

Confusing context with verb pattern

In often introduces location, not a special verb-preposition combination.

✕ He raped in her. ✓ He raped her.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The victim was raped ___ an armed attacker.
2. She was raped ___ detention.
3. The offender raped ___ victim.

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Frequently asked questions

Does 'rape' usually need a preposition?

No. The active verb normally takes a direct object directly.

Why is 'by' used after 'raped'?

By appears in passive structures to identify the offender.

Can 'in' follow 'raped'?

Yes. In commonly introduces a place or situation, such as in prison or in wartime.

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