Of vs. that of vs. because of

Question

A. The reason behind the problem was of errors frequently committed by the operator.
B. The reason behind the problem was that of errors frequently committed by the operator.
C. The reason behind the problem was those of errors frequently committed by the operator.
D. The reason behind the problem was because of errors frequently committed by the operator.

1. Which of the sentences above are grammatical?
2. If two or more are possible, what is the difference?
3. Which are natural?

Please advise. I would really appreciate your help.

Markroe · Accepted Answer

]A. The reason behind the problem was of errors frequently committed by the operator.
B. The reason behind the problem was that of errors frequently committed by the operator.
C. The reason behind the problem was those of errors frequently committed by the operator.
D. The reason behind the problem was because of errors frequently committed by the operator.

1. Which of the sentences above are grammatical?
2. If two or more are possible, what is the difference?
3. Which are natural?[/quote]
The words in bold are all unnecessary, so the sentences are all incorrect.
suggestions:

- The reason behind the problem was errors frequently committed by the operator.
- The reason behind the problem was frequent errors by the operator.
- The reason for the problem was frequent errors by the operator.
There is no difference in meaning in these sentences. The second and third ones are a bit simpler. (The word "committed" is really not necessary.)

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you, Markroe, for you suggestions. I really appreciate it.

Markroe- The reason behind the problem was (of) frequent errors by the operator.

I'm just curious what would the sentence above mean if "of" were added? Would it make sense?

Markroe · Answer

No, it does not make sense to add "of."

Anonymous · Answer

OK, thank you for your answer.  That was helpful.

Of vs. that of vs. because of

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