If a non-native speaker of English uses correct prepositions in their written and oral communication, they are said to have collocational knowledge/competence which can be defined as knowing which ...
Your original sentence is different in that you've used the word this twice in the same sentence. In that sentence, you need to start with a dummy pronoun (it) which serves a grammatical role rather than a semantic one: It has been like this for years. Plus, it isn't normally any clearer if you use it instead of this, generally speaking.
Converting sentences to and from passive voice in the format of Cambridge Use of English Part Four, including past,present and future passive tenses.
Definition of Sentence from our glossary of English linguistic and grammatical terms containing explanations and cross-references to other relevant English grammar terms.
Discover how to optimise passive sentences in English grammar to improve clarity and conciseness. Learn when to include or omit the agent, resulting in more effective communication.
This sentence expresses a preference for the train over the bus. Other examples include: Rather you than me! I decided to write rather than email. Would rather "Would rather" is another way to express preference. Would rather + infinitive without 'to': I 'd rather leave now. Would rather + pronoun + past tense: I 'd rather he came early.
Passive voice key word sentence transformations Cambridge First Use of English Part Four For questions 20-32, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words, including the word given.