In the English language, the word “quarter” is often used to refer to a period of time that is one-fourth of a larger unit, such as a year, a day, or a century. When “quarter” is used in this context, it is common to follow it with the preposition “of” to indicate a relationship of belonging or to specify the larger unit to which the quarter belongs.
The Concept of “Quarter”
To begin, let’s clarify what a “quarter” means. A quarter can refer to:
- A period of three months: This is the most common usage, where “quarter” is used to divide a year into four equal parts. For example, “the first quarter” refers to the first three months of the year, which is typically January, February, and March.
- A section of a day: A day can also be divided into four quarters, each lasting six hours.
- A section of a circle: In geometry, a circle can be divided into four quarters, each being a 90-degree section.
The Role of “Of” After “Quarter”
When “quarter” is used to denote a period of time, particularly in the context of a year, it is customary to use “of” to show the relationship between the quarter and the whole year. This usage is not only grammatically correct but also helps to clarify the context.
Examples:
Yearly Quarters:
- “The third quarter of the year” refers to the period from July to September.
- “We are currently in the second quarter of 2023.”
Daytime Quarters:
- “The second quarter of the day” would be from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Circular Quarters:
- “The first quarter of the circle” is the upper right section of a circle, from 0 to 90 degrees.
Why Use “Of”?
The use of “of” after “quarter” serves several purposes:
- Clarity: It makes it clear that the quarter is a part of a larger unit, whether it’s a year, a day, or a circle.
- Formality: In formal writing and speech, the use of “of” is considered standard and appropriate.
- Consistency: It provides consistency in language use, as other similar phrases also use “of” to denote part-whole relationships. For example, “a half of” or “two-thirds of.”
Conclusion
In summary, when using “quarter” to refer to a period of time, especially in the context of a year, it is grammatically correct and contextually appropriate to follow it with “of.” This usage not only demonstrates a command of the English language but also enhances the clarity and formality of communication. Whether discussing financial reports, academic terms, or everyday language, the combination of “quarter” with “of” is a useful and effective way to express part-whole relationships.