I am of the opinion that

[angliholic]

I am of the opinion that the giraffe is the best leader, for it has a long neck and long legs, making it the tallest animal in the forest.


I guess the underlined part mean "I have this opinion ..." or "I think that ..." but how do you interpret "of" in the context? It's rather tricky for us because we never say it that way.

[engee30]

I am of the opinion that the giraffe is the best leader, for it has a long neck and long legs, making it the tallest animal in the forest.


I guess the underlined part mean "I have this opinion ..." or "I think that ..." but how do you interpret "of" in the context? It's rather tricky for us because we never say it that way.

It's a fixed phrase (quite formal in style); just imagine how significantly leaving out of would change the meaning of the phrase.

[angliholic]

Thanks, engee.
I know it's a fixed phrase but how do you interpret "of" in the phrase?

[engee30]

Thanks, engee.
I know it's a fixed phrase but how do you interpret "of" in the phrase?

In terms of grammar, it's a preposition; speaking of its meaning, it's got something to do with possession, My opinion is that...

[justinwschang]

It's also more forceful or intensive.

My opinion is
I am of the opinion

My conviction is
I am of the conviction

Your entire being believes so.