at his master

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at his master" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is in service to or under the authority of a master or superior. Example: "The loyal servant remained at his master’s side, ready to assist him at any moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Recently, Sumo sprang at his master and drew blood from his stomach.

Independent

When this dog sneezes, he always cracks his chin on the floor, and than looks reproachfully at his master.

The New Yorker

Almost a year after I first met Glenn Black at his master class in Manhattan, I received an e-mail from him telling me that he had undergone spinal surgery.

The New York Times - Magazine

The house-building boy is clearly a servant, snatching an illicit moment of leisure at his master's gaming table.

Independent

For the first time, he also received money for his services: tips for dropping off a letter or for serving guests at his master's house.

The New York Times - Books

As the cavalier Ernesto grooms himself to court Buonafede's other daughter, Flaminia, Ernesto's ragtag servant, Cecco, recoils at his master's bad underarm odor.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

That remark was probably aimed not at the public but at his masters in Washington; he apparently needed to get their attention.

The New York Times

Mr DeLay levered him into his current position, as majority whip, but Mr Blunt is not as good as his master at managing the House floor.

The Economist

James Hieronymus received his bachelor's degree in physics from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, his master's degree from UC San Diego, and his doctorate from Cornell University.

University of California, Berkeley

Mr. Courtney earned his bachelor's degree at Syracuse University and his master's at Columbia Teacher's College.

The New York Times

Lewis, who was taking night classes at the School of Education at Clark Atlanta University, wrote his master's thesis on the technique.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical contexts involving servitude or apprenticeship, use "at his master's" to accurately depict the hierarchical relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "at his master" when describing actions against the master; instead, use phrases like "against his master" or "in defiance of his master".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at his master" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate location, proximity, or relationship. It specifies where or in whose presence an action occurs, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at his master" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase indicating location, proximity, or a relational context, according to Ludwig. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic sources, its register is neutral, allowing flexibility across various narratives. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable in contexts denoting service or authority. For greater clarity, consider alternatives like "in his master's presence" or "under his master's command" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in his master's presence

Replaces "at" with "in the presence of", emphasizing proximity and location.

before his master

Indicates a position or action taking place in front of the master, highlighting visibility.

under his master's gaze

Focuses on being watched or observed by the master, stressing surveillance.

in the service of his master

Emphasizes the act of serving and the subservient relationship.

within his master's domain

Highlights the master's area of control or influence.

attending to his master

Implies providing care, help, or attention to the master.

observing his master

Concentrates on the act of watching the master, often for instruction or guidance.

near his master

Simply describes being in close physical proximity to the master.

in his master's employment

Specifies that someone is hired or working for the master.

following his master

Indicates movement behind or obedience to the master.

FAQs

How can I use "at his master" in a sentence?

You can use "at his master" to describe a location, action, or state related to someone's master. For instance, "The dog waited patiently "at his master's" feet".

What's a good alternative to using the phrase "at his master"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "in his master's service", "before his master", or "in the presence of "his master"".

Is it appropriate to use "at his master" in modern contexts?

While less common in contemporary settings, "at his master" remains appropriate in historical, allegorical, or fantasy contexts where a master-servant dynamic is relevant. Consider alternatives like "under his supervisor" in modern business situations.

How does the meaning of "at his master" change with different prepositions?

Using different prepositions alters the relationship. "To his master" suggests direction, "for his master" implies purpose, while "from his master" indicates origin or source.