To (the Preposition)

by Craig Shrives
The Quick Answer
"To" is used in expressions like "to the park," "to the postman," and "agree to a proposal." (The word "to" in these examples is a preposition.)
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"To" As a Preposition

There is sometimes confusion over the words "to" and "too." The word "to" has two uses. The one covered on this page is its use as a preposition.

All the uses of "too" and "to" are shown in the lesson the difference between "to" and "too.

Using "to" as a preposition is extremely common. Using "too" as a preposition is serious grammar mistake.
What Is a Preposition?

The word "preposition" means positioned before. A preposition sits typically before a word to show that word's relationship to another nearby word. For example:
  • Give the bone to the dog.
    • (Here, the preposition "to" tells us the relationship between "give" and "dog.")
  • He is a boy from the ghetto.
    • (Here, the preposition "from" tells us the relationship between "ghetto" and "boy.")
The following are also prepositions: in, on, at, around, above, near, underneath, alongside, of, and for.

Read more about prepositions.

Examples of "To" as a Preposition

  • Alan gave the box to me.
    • ("To" shows the relationship between the words "gave," "box," and "me.")
  • Please return the slips to the secretary.
Here is a real-life example:
  • I must say I find television very educational. The minute somebody turns it on, I go to the library and read a good book. (Comedian Groucho Marx)
The next two examples are mistakes. ("Too" cannot be used as a preposition.)
  • They should send all of them too the moon.
  • Is that the diamond you gave too your cousin?

"To" Is Not Always a Preposition

The word "to" is also used as the sign of the infinitive. This means it appears before a verb to show the verb is in its basic form. For example:
  • I want to run.
  • It is important to think.
    • (In these examples, the word "to" is not a preposition.)
Here is a real-life example:
  • I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member. (Groucho Marx)
    • (Here, "to" is not a preposition.)
Look at this example:
  • Next time I see you, remind me not to talk to you. (Groucho Marx)
    • (Here, the first "to" marks an infinitive verb, but the second one is a preposition.)
Read more about "to" as the sign of the infinitive.

Summary of "To" and "Too"

This infographic summarizes the different uses of "to" and "too":

to or too?
Interactive Exercise
Here are three randomly selected questions from a larger exercise, which can be edited, printed to create an exercise worksheet, or sent via email to friends or students.

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See Also

What are prepositions? To (infinitive verb) and too To and too (meaning as well) To and too (meaning in excess)