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Prepositions with nouns

Using “leader” with prepositions

“As leader” is a common expression for someone acting in the role of leader. “Of leader” is not normally used alone and usually appears inside a longer phrase such as “the role of leader”.

Quick answer

Which form is correct?

Use “as leader” when describing a role or function. “Of leader” is usually incomplete by itself and normally follows another noun, such as “qualities of a leader” or “the position of leader.”

She spoke as leader of the team.
He acted as leader during the crisis.
They discussed the responsibilities of a leader.

Choose the pattern by meaning

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

1
as leader

Showing a role or function

Use “as leader” when someone performs duties in that position.

Maria succeeded as leader of the project.
He was respected as leader by the staff.
2
qualities of a leader

Describing characteristics

Use “of a leader” after another noun to describe leadership traits.

She admired the patience of a leader.
The book explains the mindset of a leader.
3
position of leader

Naming a title or post

Use “of leader” after nouns like “position,” “role,” or “title.”

He accepted the position of leader.
They debated the role of leader in the group.

See the difference in context

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

Construction
Example
Meaning
as leader
She served as leader for two years.
Correct for a role or function.
of leader
the responsibilities of a leader
Natural only as part of a larger noun phrase.
leader of
He became leader of the party.
Common way to name what someone leads.

Common mistakes

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

Using “of leader” alone

“Of leader” normally needs another noun before it.

✕ She worked of leader. ✓ She worked as leader.

Missing an article

Use “a” or “the” when “leader” is a countable noun.

✕ qualities of leader ✓ qualities of a leader

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. She acted ___ during the negotiations.
2. They discussed the duties ___ the team.
3. He became ___ the organization.

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Frequently asked questions

Is “as leader” formal or informal?

It works in both formal and everyday English.

Can I say “of leader” by itself?

Usually no. It normally follows another noun, such as “role of leader.”

What is the difference between “as leader” and “leader of”?

“As leader” describes a role, while “leader of” names the group someone leads.

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