at official level

USAGE SUMMARY

"at official level" is a valid phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a higher standard of protocol or consideration than is typically encountered. For example, "The two sides failed to reach an agreement at official level, but may yet find a resolution on their own."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Yesterday afternoon the White House said it was a discussion held only at official level.

The Guardian

The Austrian ambassador attended today's ceremony despite sanctions that stipulate that such envoys should only be received at "official level".

The New York Times

In a statement late Sunday, the Finance Ministry reiterated that "ongoing contacts continue at official level with international colleagues in light of current market conditions," but stressed that "Ireland has made no application for external support".

The New York Times

Today, after more than 6,700 people were rescued from boats off the Libyan coast, Mr Abbott claimed there had already been "contact at official level between Australian people and Europeans".

Independent

Talks will now grind on at official level for months over UK demands to curb welfare payments for EU migrants, demands to opt out of "ever-closer union", demands to give more powers to national parliaments to block EU laws, and demands to ensure that what goes on inside the eurozone does not compromise the interests of those outside.

The Guardian

But there was little sign of progress from the three days of preparatory discussions at official level; and little hope of the ministers making further progress.The current negotiations involve the Kyoto Protocol, a deal which was reached in the Japanese city of the same name in 1997.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Substantial efforts at official levels are aimed towards sustainable development but also towards maintaining values of what may be termed vanishing landscapes.

Geoforum

Sri Lanka maintains that he enjoys diplomatic immunity and that America, as the UN's host nation, must ensure that he can work unhindered.General Dias however, against whom protest was lodged at official levels, is due back in Colombo.

The Economist

It shows that at an official level at least, relations between Mexico and the United States are much more constructive than they were.

The Economist

"Jordan at the official level is drifting far away from Jordan at the popular level," reflected a Jordanian political analyst, Muna Shuqair, this week.

The Economist

Neighbouring Liberia has, at an official level, been deeply implicated in the trade, the report concludes.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at official level", ensure the context clearly indicates that communication, negotiations, or actions are conducted through formal, authorized channels and involve individuals representing organizations or governments in their designated capacities.

Common error

Avoid using "at official level" when referring to personal opinions or actions that are not endorsed or representative of an organization. This phrase should only be used when describing activities carried out within established protocols and with proper authorization.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at official level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the manner or setting in which an action takes place. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates a formal or authorized context for discussions, negotiations, or actions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at official level" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for denoting actions or discussions conducted through formal, authorized channels. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is primarily used in news, business, and formal contexts to emphasize the structured and authorized nature of an event. While "at official level" is not exceedingly common, understanding its proper application can enhance precision in writing and communication, helping to avoid misinterpretations of scope or authority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a formal basis

Replaces "official level" with "formal basis", emphasizing the structured nature of the interaction.

through official channels

Focuses on the method of communication or action, highlighting adherence to established procedures.

at the diplomatic level

Specifically refers to interactions between nations or governments.

in an official capacity

Emphasizes that someone is acting according to their role or position.

at a governmental level

Highlights involvement of government entities.

in authorized circles

Emphasizes that someone is acting according to a group with the authority

through proper channels

Indicates that an action has been reviewed and approved by the correct people.

within the formal structure

Highlights that there are hierarchical structures to consider.

through established processes

Indicates that there are conventional and predefined processes that need to be followed.

in executive departments

Highlights actions that occur only in executive offices

FAQs

How can I use "at official level" in a sentence?

You can use "at official level" to describe discussions, negotiations, or actions taken through formal channels, such as "The matter was discussed "at official level" between the two governments".

What are some alternatives to "at official level"?

Some alternatives include "on a formal basis", "through official channels", or "in an official capacity", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "at official levels" instead of "at official level"?

While "at official levels" is grammatically correct, it implies involvement across multiple tiers of authority. "At official level" generally refers to a singular, formal interaction or process.

What's the difference between "at official level" and "officially"?

"At official level" describes where or how something occurs (e.g., a discussion), while "officially" describes the manner in which something is done (e.g., "The announcement was made officially").