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Prepositions after adjectives

How to use “akin” with prepositions

Akin is normally followed by to when showing similarity. Other prepositions usually belong to separate phrases.

Quick answer

Use “akin to” for similarity

Akin to is the standard and natural pattern. Akin in and akin of are not normal complements after the adjective.

The style is akin to classical jazz.
Her reaction was akin to panic.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
akin to + thing

Showing similarity

To is the normal preposition after akin.

Their approach is akin to fraud.
2
akin to + feeling

Comparing emotional states

Akin to often compares one feeling or state with another.

He felt something akin to relief.
3
akin in + respect

Separate phrase of respect

In can introduce an area of similarity but does not directly complete akin.

The two systems are similar, akin in structure and purpose.
4
akin of

Nonstandard combination

Of is not normally used directly after akin.

Not standard: akin of ancient myths

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
akin to
The experience was akin to a dream.
standard expression of similarity
akin in
The cultures are akin in many ways.
in introduces the area of similarity
akin of
This is akin of earlier theories.
nonstandard in modern English
similar to
Her voice is similar to her mother's.
common alternative to akin to

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Replacing “to” with “of”

Akin normally takes to.

✕ The mood was akin of fear. ✓ The mood was akin to fear.

Using “in” as the main complement

In can describe an area or respect, not the basic adjective pattern.

✕ The design is akin in modern art. ✓ The design is akin to modern art.

Leaving out the preposition

Akin is usually followed by to before a noun phrase.

✕ The sound was akin thunder. ✓ The sound was akin to thunder.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. His reaction was akin ___ outrage.
2. The traditions are akin ___ style and rhythm.
3. Which phrase is standard English?

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Frequently asked questions

Is “akin to” formal?

Yes. It is slightly formal but common in educated English.

Can I say “akin of”?

No. Modern English does not normally use of after akin.

What is a common alternative to “akin to”?

Similar to is the most common alternative.

abhorrent-to-in-for-of, about "ablaze with" or "ablaze in"? "able for" or "able in"? "abreast of" or "abreast with"? "absent from" or "absent in"? absolute in, for, of, to or as? "absurd to", "absurd in" or "absurd for"? abundant in, with, of, on or for? "abusive to", "abusive in" or "abusive towards"? "academic in" or "academic at"? "acceptable to" or "acceptable for"? accessible to, by, for, from or in?

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