momoxue
why it's "on top of sth" instead of " on the top of sth"?
I looked a word "lap" up in the dictionary. The definition is " If you have something on your lap when you are sitting down, it is on top of your legs and near to your body."
I'm wondering why it's " on top of your legs" instead of " on the top of you legs"
thanks for your help.
2013년 5월 2일 오후 5:29
답변 · 2
It cannot be "on the top" because your legs don't have a top! In order to be on the top of something, that thing has to have a top!
on the top of that pile
Otherwise you say:
1. on top of
2. AT the top of
at the top of the class
at the top of the mountain
2013년 5월 3일
“On top" is an expression which means:
1. At the highest point or peak.
2. In a dominant, controlling or successful position.
“On top of” is an expression meaning:
1. On or at the uppermost point or side of.
2. Informal.
a. In control of
b. Fully informed about
3. Besides; in addition to
4. Following closely upon; coming immediately after.
A good dictionary, such as the American Heritage Dictionary of the English language (if you can afford it) would answer questions such as this one.
2013년 5월 2일
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