A1preposition high_frequency_chunk

At

UK /["/ət//æt/","/æt/"]/ US /["/ət//æt/","/æt/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

used to say where something/somebody is or where something happens

Listen to definition

In simple words: A preposition used to show a point in space or time.

Examples

• She is waiting at the bus stop.
• Look at the beautiful painting!
• They arrived at the party late.
• The cat jumped at the mouse.
• Meet me at the cafe on the corner.

Usage notes

Use 'at' for specific locations or times. Avoid using it for broad areas (use 'in') or for days (use 'on').

Grammar pattern

at + location/time

Memory hint

Think of an arrow pointing 'at' a target.

Collocations

• at home
• at work
• at the station
• at night
• at a party

Synonyms

• on
• upon
• in
• towards

Antonyms

• away
• out

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'in' when referring to specific locations.
• Used 'at' when it should be 'on' for days.
• Incorrectly used 'at' for general areas instead of specific points.