at
Shows the place where something or someone is.
Used to indicate the specific place or position of something or someone.
Shows the exact time something happens.
Used to indicate a particular time when something happens.
Shows who or what an action goes to.
Used to show the person, thing, or place that an action is directed toward.
Shows a situation or feeling someone has.
Used to express a particular state, situation, or condition that someone or something is in.
- Base: at
- Plural: ats
at all
1To any extent (negative)
Used to mean 'in any way', usually with negatives.
- I don’t like this movie at all.
- He isn’t tired at all after running.
at once
1Immediately, without delay
Right away, without waiting.
- Come here at once!
- I knew at once that something was wrong.
at first
1In the beginning stage/time
At the start of something.
- At first, I didn’t like the idea.
- At first, I found the job difficult, but it got easier.
- It was hard at first, but then it got easier.
- They didn’t like each other at first, but now they are friends.
at least
1no less than stated amount/fact
Used to show that a number or fact is not less than what you say, or to add a positive point after something negative.
- You should sleep for at least seven hours a night.
- It’s cold, but at least it’s not raining.
at least
2No less than a stated amount
Shows the smallest number or level possible, or gives a positive side.
- You should sleep for at least eight hours.
- At least we finished the project on time.
at random
1Without method or pattern in choice/action
Without any plan or order.
- The teacher called on students at random.
- The books were stacked at random on the table.
- The inspector chose five stores at random to visit.
- The books were placed on the shelf at random.
- Winners will be selected at random from all entries.
- Guns were fired at random into the crowd.
- I opened the book at random and started reading.