at either end

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at either end" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to two opposite ends of something, or two options or choices. Example: The hallway was lined with doors at either end, making it difficult to determine which one led to the correct room. Alternatively, you can also use the phrase to describe two options or choices. Example: You can choose to take the train or the bus, as they both stop at either end of the city.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't burn the candle at either end.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Each has openings at either end.

The New York Times

There's a wonderful surprise at either end.

Independent

Towns also developed at either end of important bridges.

The Guardian

At either end of the backbone is a hydrophobic sequence.

MIT Technology Review

Finally, trap warmth at either end of the season.

The New York Times

Gates at either end declare: "Not a Walkway".

The New York Times

"It just wasn't happening at either end for us".

The New York Times - Sports

A space heater glowing orange sits at either end.

The New York Times

One, marked "Pill," had half-circles at either end.

The New Yorker

At either end of the street is a large hospital.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that the context provides a clear understanding of what is being referred to. For example, specify "at either end of the table" rather than simply "at either end" if the table isn't immediately clear from the preceding context.

Common error

Avoid using "at either end" without a clear reference point. Ensure the reader knows what 'end' you're referring to. Vague usage can lead to confusion and require the reader to infer the intended meaning, diminishing clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at either end" functions as a prepositional phrase typically used as an adverbial modifier. It modifies verbs or clauses to specify location or position in relation to something that has two ends. Examples from Ludwig show its role in describing where something is situated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at either end" is a prepositional phrase commonly used to describe locations or characteristics situated at the extremities of an object, space, or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. When using "at either end", ensure clarity by providing a clear reference point and avoid the incorrect form "at either ends". Alternatives like "at both extremities" or "at opposing sides" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at both extremities

Replaces "end" with "extremities", emphasizing the extreme points or limits.

at opposing sides

Focuses on the lateral opposition rather than the terminal points.

at each terminus

Uses a more formal term, "terminus", for end, implying a final point.

at the two extremes

Highlights the concept of extremes or polar opposites.

at the far reaches

Implies a greater distance or scope to the ends.

at both boundaries

Focuses on the limits or borders.

at opposite poles

Suggests a strong contrast or separation between the ends.

on either edge

Refers to the border or margin rather than the extreme point.

at the outer limits

Emphasizes that the ends are the most distant points.

at the terminal points

Uses more technical or formal language to describe the ends.

FAQs

How can I use "at either end" in a sentence?

You can use "at either end" to describe positions or characteristics located at the extremities of something. For example, "The hallway had doors "at either end"" or "The spectrum has different properties "at either end"".

What are some alternatives to using "at either end"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "at both extremities", "at opposing sides", or "at each terminus" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "at either ends"?

No, the correct phrase is ""at either end"". "End" should be singular because "either" refers to one of two options, not multiple ends simultaneously.

What is the difference between "at either end" and "at both ends"?

"At either end" implies a focus on one of the two ends individually, while "at both ends" refers to the presence or occurrence of something at both extremities considered together.