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Prepositions before nouns

Scale with of and in

In scale is used for size relationships. Of scale appears after descriptive nouns.

Quick answer

How do we use scale with prepositions?

Use in scale for proportional size, especially in art and design. Use of scale after nouns such as sense or change.

The model is accurate in scale
the size of scale changes

Choose the pattern by meaning

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

1
in scale

Correct proportion or size

Use in scale for relative dimensions.

The figures are in scale with the map
2
of scale

Describing scale

Use of scale after nouns discussing extent or measurement.

the importance of scale in production

See the difference in context

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

Construction
Example
Meaning
in scale
The drawing is not in scale.
proportionally accurate
of scale
problems of scale remain
relating to scale
at scale
The company manufactures at scale.
on a large scale

Common mistakes

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

Using in scale for quantity

In scale refers mainly to proportion.

✕ growth in scale production ✓ growth in production scale

Using of scale without context

Of scale usually depends on another noun.

✓ issues of scale

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The map is not drawn ___ scale.
2. They discussed the challenges ___ scale.
3. The factory now operates ___ scale.

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Frequently asked questions

What does in scale mean?

It means proportionally accurate in size.

Is of scale common alone?

No. It usually follows another noun phrase.

What is at scale?

It means operating on a large or industrial scale.

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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