at that point in time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at that point in time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific moment or period in the past when discussing events or decisions. Example: "At that point in time, we were unaware of the changes that would soon take place."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

REINARTZ: At that point in time.

The New York Times

I had about 20 people at that point in time.

The New York Times

"It was honestly, at that point in time, our home.

The New York Times

"At that point in time, I had been desensitized.

The Washington Post

"It's just a trust factor at that point in time".

The New York Times - Sports

At that point in time, you just take your medicine".

The New York Times - Sports

At that point in time, he would only be done with half of the book.

Cornell University

The amplitude of each particular sample controls the square color's lightness at that point in time.

Stanford University

And Ethan undeniably had the arrogant look that attracted her at that point in time.

The New Yorker

The Diego Costa who had no business being on the pitch at that point in time.

Independent

At that point in time, the vast majority of people were screaming 'get that idiot off'.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at that point in time" to clearly indicate a specific moment in the past, especially when contrasting it with other periods or events. For example, "At that point in time, the company was struggling, but things later improved."

Common error

Avoid using "at that point in time" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Opt for simpler alternatives like "then" or "at that moment" to maintain clarity and conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at that point in time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when an action occurred or a state existed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates a particular moment in the past, providing temporal context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at that point in time" serves as a common and grammatically correct way to reference a specific moment in the past. Ludwig AI confirms this. Its usage is most prevalent in news and academic contexts, reflecting a neutral register. While effective for providing temporal context, it's advisable to avoid overuse and consider simpler alternatives like "then" or "at that moment" to maintain writing clarity. With its straightforward purpose and consistent application, mastering "at that point in time" enhances precision in both writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at that moment

This alternative provides a more concise way to refer to a specific instant.

at that instance

This alternative emphasizes the immediacy and abruptness of a specific event.

at that juncture

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes a critical moment of decision or change.

at that stage

This alternative highlights a particular phase in a process or development.

during that period

This alternative focuses on a span of time rather than a specific point.

in those days

This alternative refers to a less specific period in the past, often with a historical connotation.

back then

This alternative is informal and evokes a sense of nostalgia or reminiscence.

at that stage of events

This alternative refers to a particular phase during the sequence of occurrences.

upon that occasion

This alternative refers to a specific event or instance.

when that happened

This alternative describes the moment or circumstance when that event transpired.

FAQs

How can I use "at that point in time" in a sentence?

Use "at that point in time" to refer to a specific moment or period in the past when describing events or decisions. For example: "At that point in time, we were unaware of the changes that would soon take place."

What are some alternatives to "at that point in time"?

You can use alternatives like "at that moment", "during that period", or "back then" depending on the context.

Is "at that point in time" formal or informal?

"At that point in time" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. Simpler alternatives like "then" might be more appropriate in informal contexts.

What's the difference between "at that point in time" and "at this point in time"?

"At that point in time" refers to a specific moment in the past, while "at this point in time" refers to the present.