Overview
Learn how to build and use noun phrases with 'of' to describe relationships, quantities, and possession in English.
Noun phrases with 'of'
- possessionthe colour of the sky / the price of the tickets
- quantitya cup of coffee / a number of students
- characteristicthe top of the mountain / the end of the film
- abstracta lack of data / the cost of living
Common noun + 'of' patterns
- the majority of / the minority of students
- a piece of advice / a range of options
- the benefits of / the results of / the effect of
- the beginning / end / top / centre of …
Common Mistakes
- ❌ a piece from advice → ✅ a piece of advice
- ❌ the cost for living → ✅ the cost of living
- ❌ the majority from students → ✅ the majority of students
When to use
Academic writing
The majority of participants agreed.
News
The cost of living has risen sharply.
Giving advice
Can I give you a piece of advice?
Reports
The results of the experiment were positive.