preposition

at

3Sections

Used for specific points, locations, and precise times

Diagrams

AT - Simple Icon
AT - Simple IconSimple icon showing AT (specific point)
AT Preposition - Point Relationships
AT Preposition - Point RelationshipsShows AT used for specific points, targets, and precise locations
IN, ON, AT - Time Relationships
IN, ON, AT - Time RelationshipsShows how IN, ON, and AT are used for different time scales
IN, ON, AT - Place Relationships
IN, ON, AT - Place RelationshipsShows the hierarchy: IN (enclosed) → ON (surface) → AT (point)
IN-ON-AT Triangle Method
IN-ON-AT Triangle MethodThe Triangle Method: visual guide to understanding preposition hierarchy from general (IN) to specific (AT)

Common collocations

  • at least
  • at last
  • at first
  • at once
  • at present
  • at risk
  • at war
  • at peace
  • at work
  • at home

Description

Used for specific points, locations, and precise times

AT indicates precise points in space or time. Unlike IN (enclosed space) and ON (surface), AT treats a location as a single point without dimension. For time, AT is used with exact times (clock times, noon, midnight). AT also directs action towards a target. In British English, AT is commonly used with places seen as points (AT the bus stop, AT the station) and in fixed expressions (AT home, AT work, AT university).

Meanings

  • Specific location or point
  • Precise time for events
  • Directed toward a target

Common Collocations

  • at least
  • at last
  • at first
  • at once
  • at present
  • at risk
  • at war
  • at peace
  • at work
  • at home

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