in the+名词+of是英语里的一种表达结构，或者说是一种固定用法。比较典型的in the+名词+of类复合介词有以下这些：
1. in the absence of 缺乏，不在，无……时
In the absence of anybody more experienced, I took command. 由于找不到其他更有经验的人，只好由我来指挥。
2. in the act of 正在做……时
In the act of picking up the ball, he slipped and fell. 他在拣球时滑了一跤。
3. in the case of 就……来说，至于……
Poverty depresses most people; in the case of my father it was otherwise. 贫困使多数人消沉，但我父亲却并不这样。
4. in the direction of 朝……方向
A woman was seen running in the direction of the station. 有人看见一名女子朝着车站的方向奔去。
5. in the event of 如果发生……，万一
In the event of rain, the party will be held indoors. 如果天下雨，聚会在室内进行。
6. in the eyes of 有……看来
In the eyes of the public, the price is too high. 在公众看来，物价太高了。
7. in the face of 在……面前，不顾
He was brave in the face of danger. 面对危险他表现得很勇敢。
7. in the form of 以……的形式
The novel is cast in the form of a diary. 这部小说是以日记的形式写的。
8. in the habit of 有……的习惯
I am in the habit of brushing my teeth twice daily. 我习惯每天刷两次牙。