“Due” can function as an adjective, adverb, or noun, but it is not a preposition by itself. However, the phrase “due to” is often used as a prepositional phrase.
Uses of “Due”:
- As an Adjective (Indicating expected arrival or obligation)
- The payment is due tomorrow.
- The restaurant’s success is due to its excellent service.
- As an Adverb (Less Common, Meaning “Directly” or “Exactly”)
- The train arrived due north.
- The shipment is heading due west.
- As a Noun (Obsolete or Formal Use)
- He received his due for his hard work.
- She gave credit where it was due.
Is “Due” a Preposition?
- “Due” alone is not a preposition because it does not establish a relationship between words.
- “Due to” functions as a prepositional phrase (meaning “because of”) and acts like a preposition:
- The restaurant closed early due to a power outage.
- Sales increased due to the new menu.
Thus, “due” alone is not a preposition, but “due to” functions as a prepositional phrase.