at checkpoints

USAGE SUMMARY

"at checkpoints" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a specific location or time that a checkpoint is present. For example: - Security personnel were stationed at checkpoints throughout the airport to ensure the safety of passengers. - The police set up random checkpoints on major roads to check for drunk drivers. - At checkpoints along the border, travelers are required to show their passports and valid identification. - The runners were required to stop and show their race bibs at various checkpoints along the route.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Four civilians killed at checkpoints.

The New Yorker

I have seen policemen at checkpoints".

Independent

Stuck at checkpoints, Iraqis pass around cigarettes.

The Economist

They joked with one another at checkpoints.

The New York Times

Troops at checkpoints are searching every car.

The Economist

Some have been stopped at checkpoints.

The New York Times

Sullen soldiers solicit bribes at checkpoints.

The New York Times

Misunderstandings at checkpoints were often lethal.

The New York Times

"They kidnap Sunnis at checkpoints".

The New York Times

Guards at checkpoints often wave scooters through.

The New York Times

Victims' heads were often displayed at checkpoints.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions or events, specify who is "at checkpoints" (e.g., soldiers, travelers) to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "at checkpoints" when referring to abstract concepts or situations that do not involve physical inspection points. Instead, use more general terms like "during inspections" or "under scrutiny".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at checkpoints" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying verbs or nouns by indicating the location where an action occurs. Ludwig's examples show it specifies where searches, delays, or encounters take place.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at checkpoints" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to specify the location of an action or event, particularly in contexts related to security, border control, or military operations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. As seen in Ludwig's examples, this phrase frequently appears in news and media sources, indicating its relevance in describing real-world scenarios. When using "at checkpoints", ensure clarity by specifying who is present and avoid using it in abstract contexts. Alternatives such as "at security checks" or "at border crossings" can provide more specific meaning depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at security checks

Replaces "checkpoints" with a synonym emphasizing the security aspect.

at security stations

Replaces "checkpoints" with a synonym emphasizing the security aspect.

at control points

Highlights the control aspect of checkpoints.

at border crossings

Specifies the checkpoints as being located at international borders.

at border controls

Specifies the control checkpoints at international borders.

at roadblocks

Emphasizes the physical obstruction aspect of checkpoints.

at customs posts

Specifies the checkpoints as being located at customs.

during security screenings

Focuses on the process of screening rather than the location.

at military posts

Emphasizes the military aspect of checkpoints.

at inspection stations

Highlights the inspection activity that occurs at the checkpoints.

FAQs

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

You can use "at checkpoints" to describe where actions or events take place, such as "Soldiers search vehicles "at checkpoints"" or "Delays are common "at checkpoints"".

What are some alternatives to using "at checkpoints"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "at security checks", "at border crossings", or "during security screenings".

Is it more appropriate to say "at the checkpoint" or "at checkpoints"?

Use "at the checkpoint" when referring to a specific, singular location. Use "at checkpoints" when discussing checkpoints in general or multiple locations.

What kind of activities typically occur "at checkpoints"?

Common activities include security screenings, document verification, vehicle inspections, and questioning of travelers.