At once

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "At once" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to emphasize that something needs to be done quickly or immediately. For example: We need to leave at once or we'll miss our flight.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At once.

The New Yorker

At once, she rallied.

The New Yorker

At once, pandemonium broke loose.

The New Yorker

At once old-school and..

Los Angeles Times

Send orders at once".

The New York Times

Usually both at once.

The Economist

She knew at once.

The New Yorker

Crisis threatened at once.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Everything happens at once".

The New York Times

Press two at once.

The New York Times

Accept at once".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "At once" to mean simultaneously, ensure clarity by pairing it with verbs that naturally occur together, avoiding awkward or illogical combinations.

Common error

Avoid using "At once" to describe actions that occur gradually or over a period of time. It's best suited for immediate or simultaneous events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "At once" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the timing or manner of an action. It signifies either immediacy, as in 'Leave at once', or simultaneity, as shown in Ludwig's examples such as 'Can you pat your head and rub your belly at once?'

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

18%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "At once" is a versatile adverbial phrase denoting either immediacy or simultaneity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly featured in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Wiki sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. For immediacy, alternatives like "immediately" or "right away" can be used; for simultaneity, consider "simultaneously". Remember to reserve "At once" for actions that are truly immediate or simultaneous, avoiding its use for gradual processes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Immediately

A single word synonym emphasizing the lack of delay.

Right away

Informal synonym indicating prompt action.

Instantly

Highlights the instantaneous nature of an action.

Without delay

A more formal way to express the absence of hesitation.

Simultaneously

Emphasizes actions occurring at the same time.

In a flash

Suggests a very quick and sudden action.

In one go

Indicates doing something completely in a single attempt.

In unison

Focuses on multiple elements acting together at the same time.

On the double

An imperative command for quick action.

Posthaste

An archaic term emphasizing extreme urgency.

FAQs

How can I use "At once" in a sentence?

"At once" can be used to indicate immediacy, as in "Leave "immediately"," or simultaneity, as in "They all spoke "simultaneously"."

What are some alternatives to using "At once"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "immediately", "right away", or "simultaneously".

Is it better to use "At once" or "Immediately"?

Both "At once" and "immediately" can be used to convey urgency. "At once" might carry a slightly stronger sense of urgency or formality depending on the context.

Can "At once" refer to something happening in the future?

No, "At once" typically refers to an action that should happen "right now" or to events happening at the same time, not in the future.