Sign In Get Started
Prepositions with nouns

How to use prepositions with “machine”

The noun “machine” combines naturally with several prepositions depending on meaning and grammar.

Quick answer

Common combinations with “machine”

Use on a machine for operating something, by machine for method, and machine for a purpose. “Of machine” and “to machine” are uncommon as direct noun patterns.

She works on a machine all day.
The parts are cut by machine.
a machine for recycling plastic

Choose the pattern by meaning

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

1
on a machine

Using or operating equipment

Use “on” for work done using a machine.

He typed the form on a machine.
2
by machine

Describing method

This phrase means using machines instead of manual work.

The fabric is sorted by machine.
3
machine for + purpose

Showing function

Use “for” to explain what the machine does.

They invented a machine for cleaning shoes.
4
machine with + feature

Describing characteristics

Use “with” to add features or parts.

a machine with automatic controls

See the difference in context

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

Construction
Example
Meaning
of machine
“Of machine” is not a common standalone pattern.
generally nonstandard without a larger phrase
on machine
She works on a machine.
using or operating equipment
with machine
They worked with machine tools.
together with or using machines
by machine
The process is done by machine.
method using machinery
to machine
The metal is difficult to machine.
verb infinitive, not a noun pattern

Common mistakes

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

Using “of machine” directly after nouns

English usually needs another structure such as “part of the machine.”

✕ the of machine noise ✓ the noise of the machine

Dropping the article before singular “machine”

Singular countable nouns usually need an article.

✕ He works on machine ✓ He works on a machine

Confusing noun and verb uses of “machine”

“To machine” is a verb meaning shape with a machine.

✕ a tool to machine ✓ a tool for machining

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The labels are printed ___.
2. She spends hours working ___ .
3. They designed a machine ___ cutting glass.

Check your sentence in context

Paste the complete sentence below. Linguix checks the preposition together with grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style.

Free to try · No signup required

Frequently asked questions

Is “by machine” correct?

Yes. It means using machinery as the method.

Can I say “on a machine”?

Yes. It describes operating or working with equipment.

What does “to machine” mean?

It is a verb meaning shape or cut something using a machine.

of, about, against, to or for racism? of, about, for, in or on friendship? of, about, for, on or to thing? of, about, for, to or with sex? of, about, on, to or for moon? "of access" or "with access"? "of accommodation" or "for accommodation"? "of accuracy" or "for accuracy"? "of action" or "in action"? "of actor", "with actor" or "by actor"? "of address" or "to address"? "of administration" or "in administration"?

Write with confidence in Linguix

Create a free account to check complete texts, apply suggestions, and save your documents.

Create a free account