of life
Qualities, themes, and parts of life
Use of life after another noun to describe an aspect or theme connected with life.
They discussed the purpose of life
“Of life” or “in life”?
Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings and grammar. “Of life” usually describes a type or quality, while “in life” refers to experience or situation.
Quick answer
Difference between “of life” and “in life”
Use of life when life modifies another noun, as in “the meaning of life.” Use in life to talk about experiences, stages, or situations during a person’s life.
Many people ask about the meaning of life
She achieved a lot in life
The novel captures the joys of life
She achieved a lot in life
The novel captures the joys of life
Choose the pattern by meaning
These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.
in life
Experiences and situations
Use in life to describe what happens during someone's life or personal journey.
He faced many challenges in life
way of life
Lifestyle and customs
Way of life is a fixed expression meaning a typical lifestyle or culture.
Farming is a traditional way of life in the region
life in + place/period
Life located in a context
Life can also be followed by in when the preposition introduces a place or time.
life in a small town can be peaceful
See the difference in context
The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.
Construction
Example
Meaning
of life
The mystery of life interests scientists.
Connected with the nature or qualities of life.
in life
She wants to succeed in life.
During one's life or personal experience.
life in
Life in the city moves quickly.
Life located in a place or situation.
way of life
Fishing is their way of life.
A customary lifestyle.
Common mistakes
Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.
Using “of life” for personal experience
Use in life when speaking about experiences or success.
✕ He was happy of life. ✓ He was happy in life.Using “in life” after abstract nouns
Many abstract nouns take of life instead.
✕ the meaning in life ✓ the meaning of lifeConfusing “life in” with “in life”
Life in introduces a place or context.
✕ in city life ✓ life in the cityDropping needed articles
Some expressions require an article.
✕ meaning of life is difficult ✓ The meaning of life is difficult to explain.Quick practice
Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.
1. Many philosophers discuss the meaning ___ life.
2. She hopes to travel widely ___ life.
3. ___ a rural area can be relaxing.
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Frequently asked questions
Is “in life” grammatically correct?
Yes. It commonly refers to experiences, success, or situations during life.
When do we use “of life”?
Use it after another noun, such as “purpose of life” or “joy of life.”
Can both phrases appear in one sentence?
Yes. For example: “She searched for the meaning of life while facing difficulties in life.”
Related preposition guides
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