an area of which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an area of which" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used when referring to a specific area in relation to a particular subject or context, but it is often better to rephrase for clarity. Example: "The research focused on an area of which the implications were not fully understood."

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But Mr Fraser believed the Express titles needed additional experience in general news - an area of which he is less certain.

The Guardian

And it may take more than a damning video, a sinister mermaid blimp and a petition to shift the practices of the canned tuna industry; even a rogue crusader in Congress (representing an area of which most Americans are barely aware) might not make a dent.

The New York Times

Sitakunda Upazila occupies an area of, which includes of forest.

Wikipedia

The municipality has an area of, which is 7.89% of the provinces' territory and 0.26% of that of Bulgaria.

Wikipedia

According to the 2006 statistical yearbook of Gyeongju, rice fields occupy an area of, which is 70% of the total cultivated acreage of.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The National Capital Territory of Delhi covers an area of, of which is designated rural, and urban therefore making it the largest city in terms of area in the country.

Wikipedia

As of, the municipality has a population of (around 34,000 in the town itself) and covers an area of of which is water.

Wikipedia

It's an area of business which is highly competitive and some use unethical practices.

The Guardian

This is an area of science which should be approached rationally and with an open mind," he added.

Independent

She was literary, but she worked in an area of science, which overlapped with an interest I had recently developed.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Gusev crater is in an area of Mars which astrogeologists believe was once covered in hot springs and geysers.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For clarity, consider replacing "an area of which" with simpler alternatives like "a region that" or "a field in which", especially in less formal contexts. Using simpler language enhances readability.

Common error

Avoid using "an area of which" in informal writing. Its formal tone can sound stilted or unnatural in everyday conversation or casual writing. Opt for more straightforward phrasing to maintain a natural and accessible tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an area of which" functions as a modifier, specifying a particular section or domain. As suggested by Ludwig, while grammatically correct, this phrase can often be replaced with more direct and simpler alternatives to enhance clarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an area of which" is grammatically correct but often perceived as overly formal and somewhat awkward. Ludwig suggests simpler alternatives like "a region that" or "a field in which" for improved clarity and readability. Although primarily seen in news, wiki, and scientific contexts, its infrequent usage suggests careful consideration of more straightforward phrasing in most situations. Therefore, while not incorrect, opting for more direct language enhances the overall impact and accessibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a part of which

Focuses on the "part" aspect, referring to an specific component of a larger whole.

a region that

Replaces "area of which" with a simpler, more direct description of a geographical location.

a field in which

Substitutes "area" with "field", emphasizing a domain of study or activity rather than a physical space.

a sphere where

Replaces "area" with "sphere", indicating a broader scope of influence or activity.

a domain where

Changes "area" to "domain", suggesting a specific realm or territory of control or knowledge.

a sector that

Replaces "area" with "sector", highlighting a particular segment or division within a larger context.

a zone that

Substitutes "area" with "zone", referring to a specific region or district with defined characteristics.

a space that

Replaces "area" with "space", emphasizing a physical or conceptual location where something exists or occurs.

a context where

Changes "area" to "context", shifting the focus to the circumstances or conditions surrounding an event or situation.

a territory within

Replaces "area" with "territory", often emphasizing borders and control.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "an area of which" for better clarity?

Consider using phrases like "a region that", "a field in which", or "a part of which" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "an area of which" and "a region that"?

"An area of which" is more formal and less direct. "A region that" is simpler and clearer, making it preferable in most contexts.

Is "an area of which" grammatically incorrect?

No, "an area of which" is grammatically correct, but it can sound awkward or overly formal. Rephrasing can often improve readability.

When is it appropriate to use "an area of which"?

Use "an area of which" in formal or technical writing where precise language is required. However, in most other situations, simpler alternatives are better.