Meaning & use
being of service
Last updated
Meanings
phrasefixed phrase
the state or activity of helping others or doing useful work for people
Grammar: Used as a noun phrase. Often followed by 'to' plus a person or organization: being of service to the community.
Patterns
- being of service to someone
- being of service in something
She finds deep satisfaction in being of service to her neighbors.
The organization is dedicated to being of service in times of crisis.
He spent his retirement being of service to young people through mentoring.
phrasefixed phrase
available to help someone when they need it
Grammar: Often used with 'be': I am at your service. 'Being of service' can mean being ready to help.
Patterns
- be of service to someone
If you need anything, I hope to be of service.
The staff were polite and eager to be of service.
Common combinations
- being of service to others
- He believes that being of service to others is the highest calling.
- being of service to the community
- The award recognizes her years of being of service to the community.
- a life of service
- She has lived a life of service to her country.
- be of service
- The help desk is always ready to be of service.
Synonyms and how they differ
Word family
- service noun
- The act of helping or working for others.
- serve verb
- To work for or help someone.
- serviceable adjective
- Useful or able to be used.
Commonly confused: being of service or in service?
being of service vs in service
Means 'in use' or 'working as a servant', not 'helping others'. 'Being of service' is about helping; 'in service' is about being used or employed.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'being of service' correctly?
Choose one answer.
The correct preposition after 'being of service' is 'to': being of service to someone. 'In' is used for places or fields, 'for' would suggest purpose, and 'at' is used for locations, not people.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “being of service”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.