Clarifying the Correct Phrase: ‘He Comes from a Noble Family’ or ‘He Is from a Noble Family’

Introduction

In English, the phrase to describe someone's lineage or background can vary depending on the context and personal preference. This article delves into whether one should use “He comes from a noble family” or “He is from a noble family” with a detailed examination of the correctness and usage of each phrase.

The Correct Phrase

The verbatim answer to the query is: “He comes from a noble family.” This phrase is widely accepted and grammatically correct. The alternative, “He comes of a noble family,” is not grammatically correct and would be considered archaic or mistaken by most native speakers.

Alternative Expressions

There are several valid ways to express the same idea:

“He hails from a noble family.”

“He is from a noble family.”

These phrases are not only grammatically correct but also carry a certain formality, which may better suit the context where nobility is emphasized.

Grammatical Analysis

Let's break down the grammatical correctness of each phrase:

“He comes from a noble family.”

This is the most standard and widely accepted expression. It correctly uses the preposition “from” which indicates origin or ancestry.

“He comes of a noble family.”

While this phrase might be understood, it is grammatically incorrect. The preposition “of” does not fit in this context in modern English. This might actually be a more archaic or incorrect usage.

“He is of noble birth.”

This older expression, while correct, is less common in contemporary usage. It is understood but might sound outdated.

Cultural Considerations

As a native speaker from the UK, the idea of using the term "noble family" often comes across as rather dated. In modern contexts, other terms such as "hailing from," or simply stating “from” are more commonly used to describe ancestry or heritage.

Conclusion

When it comes to describing someone's noble origins, it is advisable to use the grammatically correct phrase “He comes from a noble family.” This phrase is clear, concise, and accepted by the majority of English speakers. If you want to add more formality or use an older expression, you can opt for phrases like “He hails from a noble family” or “He is from a noble family.” However, be aware that “He comes of a noble family” and “He is of noble birth” are not grammatically correct and should be avoided in contemporary writing and speech.