Most vs Most of

Question

Hi,

I always have a hard time to tell the difference between 'most <n>' vs 'most of <n>'? For instance, "most companies" vs. "most of the companies". Could someone please explain?

thanks in advance

/P

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

I always have a hard time to tell the difference between 'most <n>' vs 'most of <n>'? For instance, "most companies" vs. "most of the companies". Could someone please explain?

most companies When you say this, it is a general statement. It can relate all companies in the world, eg Most companies do not care about ther employees' well-being.

Or it can be a general statement which is related only to the companies in some group you have previously identified. eg Business in Toronto has been good this year. Most companies have made huge profits.

most of the companies This can only relate to some specific group. eg Most of the companies in Toronto made huge profits this year.

Let me put it another way.

If you just say to me, 'Most companies are ethical', I might say 'Yes'. I hear a general statement.

If you just say to me, 'Most of the companies are ethical', I'll say 'Which companies are you talking about?' because I hear a reference to a group.

Best wishes, Clive

Rishonly · Answer

Ppan,

In addition to Clive's comments, a quick point related to this discussion:

The most common usage of 'most of' is <<'most of' + pronoun/determiner+ noun>>, and seldom the 'most of <n>' form is used.

Most vs Most of

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