Circumstances Surrounding vs. Circumstances Of

One common mistake that many English speakers make is using the phrase "circumstances surrounding" instead of "circumstances of." While these two may seem interchangeable at first glance, there is a subtle difference in their usage.

What is the Difference?

The phrase "circumstances surrounding" implies that there are various factors or events that are closely related to a particular circumstance. It suggests that there is a context or background information that needs to be taken into account.

On the other hand, "circumstances of" refers to the specific details or characteristics of a particular circumstance. It highlights the essential elements that define the situation.

Examples

• Incorrect: The investigation is focusing on the circumstances surrounding the robbery.
• Correct: The investigation is focusing on the circumstances of the robbery.

In the incorrect example, the phrase "circumstances surrounding" suggests that there are additional details or events associated with the robbery that are under investigation. However, the intended meaning is to focus on the specific details and characteristics of the robbery itself.

By using the correct phrase "circumstances of," we convey the intended meaning precisely and avoid redundancy.

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