3.75 indirect objects in prepositional phrases

Instead of putting the indirect object in front of the direct object, it is possible to put it in a prepositional phrase that comes after the direct object.

• He handed his room key to the receptionist.
• Ralph passed a message to Jack.
• He gave it to me.

This structure is used particularly in cases where you want to focus on the indirect object. You can use it, for example, when the indirect object is significantly longer than the direct object.

• He had taught English to all the youth of Ceylon and India.
• The Express offered $100 to any reader who could relate what Bal had said.