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Preposition before noun

Distribution with prepositions

For distribution is common for items intended to be handed out. Of distribution usually follows another noun.

Quick answer

Should I use of distribution or for distribution?

Use for distribution when something is intended to be distributed. Of distribution appears in phrases like method of distribution or centre of distribution.

Copies are for distribution at the event.
a new method of distribution

Choose the pattern by meaning

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

1
for distribution

Showing intended purpose

Use this phrase for materials or products to be handed out.

Samples are for distribution tomorrow.
2
method of distribution

Naming a distribution system

Of distribution is natural after another noun.

an efficient method of distribution was adopted
3
distribution of + goods

Showing what is distributed

Distribution commonly takes of directly.

the distribution of food supplies

See the difference in context

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

Construction
Example
Meaning
for distribution
The leaflets are for distribution at schools.
intended to be handed out
of distribution
The company changed its method of distribution.
used after another noun
distribution of
The distribution of aid began early.
standard pattern for what is distributed
distribution to
Distribution to rural areas was delayed.
shows recipients or destinations

Common mistakes

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

Using of distribution directly

English usually needs another noun before of distribution.

✕ The papers are of distribution. ✓ The papers are for distribution.

Confusing for distribution with distribution of

For shows purpose; of shows the thing distributed.

✕ distribution for books ✓ distribution of books

Leaving out the object after distribution of

The phrase usually needs a noun after of.

✕ the distribution of ✓ the distribution of medicines

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. These flyers are ___ distribution after the meeting.
2. The distribution ___ clean water continued overnight.
3. They improved their method ___ distribution.

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Frequently asked questions

What does for distribution mean?

It means intended to be distributed or handed out.

Can I say of distribution alone?

Usually no. It normally follows another noun such as method or centre.

What is the main pattern with distribution?

Distribution of is the standard structure for the thing being distributed.

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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