at center stage

USAGE SUMMARY

"at center stage" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation or person that is receiving special attention or is the focus of an event. For instance, you could say, "The President was at center stage during the rally."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A supermodel at center stage.

The New York Times

Eddie and Tony stand stiffly at center stage.

The New Yorker

A redheaded stepchild at center stage?

The New York Times

That is his wife's coffin at center stage.

The New York Times

On Sunday, their family will be at center stage.

The New York Times

It put the inner dramas at center stage.

The New York Times

In Chicago, her radicalism is at center stage.

The New Yorker

Yet the old misperceptions are again at center stage.

The New York Times

Maybe it figures our defense meets them at center stage".

The New York Times - Sports

She is clearly comfortable with herself at center stage.

The New York Times

At center stage was a Steinway concert grand.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at center stage" to emphasize the focal point or area of primary importance in a discussion, performance, or event.

Common error

Avoid using "at center stage" solely to describe a physical location without implying prominence or importance. If the emphasis is only on location, consider using "in the middle of the stage" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at center stage" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. It describes the location or state of being in a position of prominence, both literally and figuratively. As shown in Ludwig, it can indicate a literal position on a stage or a metaphorical position of importance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Arts

19%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at center stage" is a prepositional phrase widely used to denote prominence or focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed in various contexts. Its primary function is to highlight importance, and it is commonly found in news, arts, and academic sources. Related phrases include "in the spotlight" and "the main focus". When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended emphasis on prominence rather than just physical location. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is a valuable tool for emphasizing key elements in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the spotlight

Focuses more on attention and public view.

the main focus

Emphasizes the central point of attention.

front and center

Highlights visibility and importance.

in the forefront

Suggests being at the leading edge or most important position.

taking precedence

Indicates a higher priority or importance.

the focal point

Highlights the specific point of interest or attention.

the key element

Focuses on essential or critical aspects.

in the limelight

Similar to "in the spotlight" but suggests even greater public attention.

at the heart of

Emphasizes the core or central part of something.

a central figure

Highlights the person or entity as being fundamentally important.

FAQs

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

You can use "at center stage" to describe something that is the main focus or most important aspect of a situation. For instance, "The debate put economic issues "at center stage"".

What are some alternatives to "at center stage"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in the spotlight", "the main focus", or "front and center", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "at centre stage" instead of "at center stage"?

Both "at center stage" and "at centre stage" are grammatically valid, but "center" is more common in American English, while "centre" is preferred in British English.

In what contexts is "at center stage" most appropriately used?

"At center stage" is often used in contexts related to performing arts, politics, or any situation where something or someone is receiving the most attention. The phrase is appropriate when the subject is not just physically in the middle, but also symbolically important or prominent.