at a stage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a stage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific point or phase in a process or development. Example: "We are currently at a stage where we need to evaluate our options before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We know we're at a stage in our lives where we're changing.

The Guardian

We are at a stage now where we are getting better and better.

The Guardian - Sport

"I think we're at a stage now where most civil rights movements falter," she admits.

The Guardian

Is science suddenly at a stage where researchers can find drugs for erectile dysfunction?

The New York Times - Health

"McCain's at a stage now where he needs a real writer," I told him.

The New York Times

"This is still at a stage where we can stop it," said Laura Rico of Avaaz.

The Guardian

They said it was not at a stage to be copy-edited".

The New Yorker

On women: "We're at a stage now where it's all about equality.

The Guardian - Sport

He's at a stage when grey can look good on a man.

The Guardian

The rehearsal room falls silent and, at a stage managerial word of command, the play begins.

The Guardian - Opinion

I was not at a stage where I needed to worry about rejection from others.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a stage" to clearly indicate a specific point or phase in a process, project, or development. This helps readers understand where things stand in a sequence of events.

Common error

Avoid using "at a stage" when a more precise term would provide greater clarity. For example, instead of saying "The project is at a stage", specify what stage it is (e.g., "The project is in the planning stage").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a stage" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb to indicate a particular point or phase in a process or development. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a stage" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to specify a particular point or phase in a process or development. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts. It is most prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While alternatives like "at a point" or "at a phase" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. To ensure clarity, avoid vague uses and provide specific details about the stage you are referencing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a phase

Substitutes "stage" with "phase", stressing a period of development.

at a point

Replaces "stage" with "point", emphasizing a specific moment in time.

at this phase

Similar to 'at a phase' but underscores the current developmental period.

at a period

Employs "period" to denote a specific duration or segment of time.

at this juncture

Similar to 'at a juncture' but emphasizes the present moment's significance.

at a juncture

Uses "juncture" to highlight a critical or significant moment.

during a time

Highlights a time when something occurs.

in the course of

Specifies something happening as part of a larger process or event.

in a moment

Indicates a particular, often brief, time.

in an era

Refers to a broader span of time characterized by specific attributes.

FAQs

How can I use "at a stage" in a sentence?

You can use "at a stage" to indicate a specific point or phase in a process or development. For instance, "We are "at a stage" where we need to evaluate our options." It's often followed by a description of what's happening or what needs to be done during that phase.

What phrases are similar to "at a stage"?

Similar phrases include "at a point", "at a phase", or "during a period". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "at a stage" or "in a stage"?

"At a stage" is the correct and more common usage. "In a stage" is less idiomatic and might sound awkward. For example, "We are "at a stage" of development" is preferred over "We are in a stage of development."

What's the difference between "at a stage" and "at a point"?

While both "at a stage" and "at a point" can indicate a specific time, "at a stage" often implies a phase within a larger process, whereas "at a point" can refer to a more specific moment or juncture. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing a period or a particular moment.