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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
At one point or another
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"at one point or another" is a correct and usable phrase in written English
You can use it to refer to a state that is likely to occur in most situations, such as: "Everyone faces difficulties at one point or another."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
We all, at one point or another, have been on some Nigerian scammer's email list.
News & Media
Everyone at one point or another, needs someone or something to lean on.
News & Media
At one point or another, you have likely been approached for money on the street.
News & Media
But all were champions at one point or another.
News & Media
They've all lost money at one point or another.
News & Media
Almost everyone is infected at one point or another.
News & Media
"Something had to happen at one point or another".
News & Media
We've all heard the mantras at one point or another.
News & Media
We've all felt the effects at one point or another.
News & Media
You've worked with them all at one point or another.
News & Media
We've all done it at one point or another.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
Use "at one point or another" to convey that an experience or situation is common or likely to occur for many people or things over time. For example, "Most people experience setbacks in their careers at one point or another."
⚠ Common error
While "at one point or another" is a useful phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "eventually", "sooner or later", or "at some time" to maintain reader engagement.
Linguistic Context
The phrase "at one point or another" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the timing of an event or action, suggesting that it happens at some unspecified time. Ludwig shows that it is often used to describe common experiences.
Expression frequency: Very common
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
73%
Wiki
13%
Formal & Business
3%
⚠ Less common in
Science
3%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "at one point or another" is a common and versatile phrase used to indicate that something is likely to happen at some time. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to express a common or eventual occurrence. It's frequently found in news and media, demonstrating its widespread use in general writing and conversation. While effective, avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "eventually" or "sooner or later" to maintain writing variety. Remember that it suggests that an experience or situation is typical or likely to happen to many people over time. Ludwig's examples support this, showcasing its use in various contexts to convey relatable and general experiences.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
sooner or later
This alternative emphasizes the inevitability of an event occurring.
eventually
This suggests that something will happen after a period of time.
at some time
This is a more general way of saying something will happen at an unspecified time.
at a certain stage
This implies something occurs during a specific phase or period.
at any given moment
This highlights the possibility of something happening at any particular time.
in due course
This suggests that something will happen at the appropriate time.
FAQs
What does "at one point or another" mean?
The phrase "at one point or another" signifies that something is likely to happen or be experienced at some time in the future, though the specific timing is uncertain. It suggests a common or eventual occurrence.
How can I use "at one point or another" in a sentence?
You can use it to describe something that is likely to happen to many people. For example, "Everyone faces challenges "sooner or later"", or "Most people will need help "eventually"".
What are some alternatives to "at one point or another"?
Some alternatives include "eventually", "sooner or later", "at some time", or "at a certain stage" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is it more formal to say "at one point or another" or "eventually"?
"Eventually" is generally considered slightly more formal than "at one point or another", though both are acceptable in most contexts. The best choice depends on the overall tone and style of your writing.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested