Most can be followed directly by a noun or by the phrase "of the."
However, it cannot be followed by "of" or "the" alone.
Almost* is usually followed by a number or quantifier (90%, all).
The quantifier can be followed by the phrase "of the," but not "of" or "the" alone.
XX |
Most of Koreans live in Asia. (Wrong!) |
OK |
Most Koreans live in Asia. (The majority of the world’s Korean people.) |
OK |
Most of the Koreans in this class are male. (Only those in the class.) |
XX |
Almost Japanese people eat rice. (Wrong!”) |
OK |
Almost all Japanese (people) eat rice. |
XX |
Almost of Japanese students like sushi. (Wrong!) |
OK |
Almost all of the Japanese (in this class) like sushi. |
*Almost means "not completely" and can also be used before verbs and adverbs.
He almost finished his homework.
We're almost there!
