to be of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to be of' is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is usually used to indicate possession, usually of something intangible like an opinion, feeling, or belief. For example, "I am of the opinion that this is the best plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You had to be of age.

The New York Times

"I'm here to be of encouragement".

The New York Times - Sports

I always wanted to be of service.

The New Yorker

I want it to be of quality.

The New Yorker

Pleased to be of service.

The Guardian - Sport

Enthusiastic, eager to be of help".

The New York Times - Arts

All appeared to be of Arab descent.

The New York Times

"We needed to be of use".

The New Yorker

And glad to be of service.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Devoted father-to-be of Sean Michael.

The New York Times

Glad to be of service.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be of", ensure the phrase clearly indicates a quality, possession, or function. For example, "This information is to be of assistance" clearly conveys its purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "to be of" when a simpler verb like "to be" suffices. For example, instead of "The event is to be of importance", use "The event is important" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be of" functions as a linking verb followed by a preposition, often indicating a quality, characteristic, or function. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely employed. Examples show it linking a subject to a descriptive attribute, such as "to be of service" or "to be of use."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

21%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be of" is a versatile expression primarily used to indicate a quality, characteristic, or function. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appears frequently in various contexts. The phrase is most common in "news & media" and "academic" sources and less so in more informal settings. While useful, consider simpler alternatives like "to be" when appropriate to maintain clarity. Remember, the nuance of "to be of" lies in its implication of possession of a quality or role, so use it judiciously to add precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to belong to

Indicates membership or association, focusing on the group or category something is a part of.

to consist of

Highlights the components or elements that make up something, shifting the emphasis to composition.

to constitute

Implies forming or composing something, often used in legal or formal contexts.

to prove to be

Emphasizes the result or outcome of something, suggesting a demonstration of quality or usefulness.

to turn out to be

Similar to 'prove to be', but with an element of surprise or unexpectedness.

to serve as

Focuses on the function or purpose that something fulfills.

to act as

Similar to 'serve as', but can also imply a temporary or substitute role.

to be composed of

Stresses the elements comprising a whole, akin to 'consist of' but more passive.

to be comprised of

Indicates the parts that make up something, though its usage is sometimes debated.

to have membership in

Highlights belonging to a group or organization.

FAQs

How can I use "to be of" in a sentence?

Use "to be of" to indicate a quality, function, or belonging. For instance, "This plan is "to be of" great help" or "She is "to be of" service".

What alternatives are there for "to be of"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "to belong to", "to consist of", or "to serve as".

Is it correct to say "to be of use"?

Yes, "to be of use" is a common and correct expression. It means to be helpful or beneficial. For example, "This tool is "to be of use" in completing the task".

What's the difference between "to be of help" and "to help"?

"To be of help" is a more formal way of saying "to help". The former is often used in professional or formal contexts, while the latter is more direct and common in everyday language.