at my feet

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at my feet" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used in figurative language to describe something or someone being under one's control or at one's disposal. It can also be used literally to describe something physically located near someone's feet. Example: She was at my feet begging for forgiveness. In this example, the phrase is used figuratively to show that the person begging for forgiveness is under the speaker's control.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She — was at my feet.

The New Yorker

She pointed at my feet.

The New York Times - Magazine

She fell at my feet.

The Guardian

It was right at my feet.

The Guardian

My soul collapsed at my feet.

The New Yorker

Ripped, heaving, flowers bloom at my feet".

The New Yorker

At my feet, a beetle high-stepped through unmowed grass.

The New Yorker

The boy, head slanted, stared fixedly at my feet.

The New Yorker

I looked at my feet and people started laughing.

The New Yorker

A rug of dead butterflies at my feet,.

The New Yorker

Rustling at my feet reminds me to look down.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at my feet" in a literal sense, ensure the context clearly indicates physical location. For example, "the dog sat contentedly at my feet".

Common error

Avoid using "at my feet" when a simpler preposition like "near" or "beside" suffices, especially in technical writing. Overusing figurative language can detract from clarity. For example, instead of "the solution lies at my feet", consider "the solution is near" if physical proximity isn't the key point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at my feet" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to indicate location, proximity, or figurative subservience. Ludwig AI confirms this through its analysis of numerous examples, where the phrase describes either a physical position or a metaphorical state of being under someone's control.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at my feet" is a versatile prepositional phrase widely used to denote physical proximity, availability, or figurative control. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and frequently appears in diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in register, writers should be mindful of its figurative implications to ensure clarity. When used figuratively, it often implies submission or abundance. Related phrases include "near me" and "under my control", offering nuanced alternatives depending on the intended meaning. By understanding its varied applications and avoiding overuse in formal contexts, writers can effectively leverage "at my feet" to enhance their expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

near me

Indicates physical closeness without necessarily implying submission or control.

close to me

Similar to "near me" but can also imply emotional closeness.

within my reach

Emphasizes accessibility and availability.

in front of me

Similar to "before me" but more literal in terms of spatial positioning.

under my control

Highlights the aspect of power or authority.

at my disposal

Highlights the ability to use or command something.

in my possession

Focuses on ownership and having something available.

next to me

Focuses on being beside someone or something.

before me

Indicates being directly in front or in one's presence.

subject to my will

Strongly emphasizes control and dominance.

FAQs

How can I use "at my feet" in a sentence?

You can use "at my feet" to describe something physically near you, like "The cat was sleeping at my feet", or figuratively, to express control or opportunity, such as "Success lay at my feet".

What are some alternatives to "at my feet"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "near me", "within my reach", or "under my control".

Is it correct to say "at my foot" instead of "at my feet"?

While grammatically understandable, "at my foot" is less common and might sound awkward. "At my feet" is the idiomatic and more widely accepted form, especially when referring to the general area around one's feet.

What does it mean when someone says opportunities are "at my feet"?

This phrase means that many chances or possibilities are readily available to you. It implies that you are in a favorable position to achieve success or fulfill your goals.