Of

[Allen165]

"Flat-rate service fees do not cover services that are provided to rectify a defect outside of the system."

The above sentence would sound better to me without "of," but I'm wondering whether it's better to keep it in formal writing. Any guidelines on the use of "of" here?

Thanks!

[emsr2d2]

"Flat-rate service fees do not cover services that are provided to rectify a defect outside of the system."

The above sentence would sound better to me without "of," but I'm wondering whether it's better to keep it in formal writing. Any guidelines on the use of "of" here?

Thanks!

I disagree. I think "outside of" sounds less formal (and in many opinions, completely incorrect). It's similar to saying "he got off of the chair". The "of" is simply unnecessary. In my opinion, "...rectify a defect outside the system" sounds more formal, more professional and much better.

[Allen165]

I disagree. I think "outside of" sounds less formal (and in many opinions, completely incorrect). It's similar to saying "he got off of the chair". The "of" is simply unnecessary. In my opinion, "...rectify a defect outside the system" sounds more formal, more professional and much better.

How about "outside of normal working hours"? Would you keep it in there?

[emsr2d2]

How about "outside of normal working hours"? Would you keep it in there?

No. I am fairly strict about how I feel about "of". If it can be omitted, I omit it.

"Outside normal working hours" is fine.