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Prepositions with nouns

Of appreciation vs in appreciation

"In appreciation" is a fixed expression meaning "as thanks for something." "Of appreciation" usually appears inside longer noun phrases such as "a token of appreciation."

Quick answer

Which phrase is correct?

Use "in appreciation" when expressing gratitude or thanks. Use "of appreciation" after another noun, such as "a gesture of appreciation" or "a certificate of appreciation." The two phrases are not usually interchangeable.

She gave him a gift in appreciation of his support.
They presented her with a plaque of appreciation.
The flowers were sent in appreciation for the volunteers' work.

Choose the pattern by meaning

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

1
in appreciation of + noun

Expressing thanks for something

Use this pattern to show gratitude for help, support, work, or kindness.

The company donated equipment in appreciation of the nurses' efforts.
He wrote a note in appreciation of her guidance.
2
noun + of appreciation

Describing a sign or expression of gratitude

Use "of appreciation" after nouns such as token, gesture, letter, or certificate.

They handed out certificates of appreciation at the ceremony.
She received a small token of appreciation from the team.
3
show appreciation for + noun

Naming the person or thing valued

With the verb "show," English normally uses "for" before the thing appreciated.

The manager showed appreciation for the staff's hard work.
Parents expressed appreciation for the teacher's patience.

See the difference in context

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

Construction
Example
Meaning
in appreciation
The dinner was held in appreciation of the donors.
A standard phrase meaning "as a way of thanking someone."
of appreciation
She received a letter of appreciation.
Used after another noun to describe a type of letter, award, or gesture.
appreciation for
He expressed appreciation for the opportunity.
A common way to name what someone values or feels thankful for.
appreciation of
The course encourages appreciation of art.
Often means understanding or recognition, not necessarily gratitude.

Common mistakes

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

Using "of appreciation" alone to mean thanks

"Of appreciation" usually needs another noun before it.

✕ We met of appreciation for your help. ✓ We met in appreciation of your help.

Confusing gratitude with understanding

"Appreciation of" can mean understanding rather than thanks.

✕ She gave him flowers in appreciation art. ✓ She gave him flowers in appreciation of his support.

Leaving out "of" after "in appreciation"

The full expression is usually "in appreciation of" plus a noun.

✕ The award was given in appreciation the volunteers. ✓ The award was given in appreciation of the volunteers.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. They organised a reception ___ appreciation of the retiring principal.
2. She received a certificate ___ appreciation.
3. The team expressed appreciation ___ the extra support.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I say "in appreciation" without "of"?

Yes, but it is usually followed by a phrase explaining what the gratitude is for, such as "in appreciation of your help."

Is "of appreciation" incorrect?

No. It is correct after another noun, as in "a gesture of appreciation" or "a letter of appreciation."

What is the difference between "appreciation of" and "appreciation for"?

"Appreciation of" often means understanding or recognition, while "appreciation for" commonly expresses gratitude or value.

of, about, against, to or for racism? of, about, for, in or on friendship? of, about, for, on or to thing? of, about, for, to or with sex? of, about, on, to or for moon? "of access" or "with access"? "of accommodation" or "for accommodation"? "of accuracy" or "for accuracy"? "of action" or "in action"? "of actor", "with actor" or "by actor"? "of address" or "to address"? "of administration" or "in administration"?

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