at the back of the queue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the back of the queue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's position in a line or sequence, indicating that they are at the end of it. Example: "After arriving late, I found myself at the back of the queue for the concert tickets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I'm way at the back of the queue".

Independent

Impatient voters lined up at the back of the queue begin to disperse.

Independent

They are now at the back of the queue waiting to get home.

The Guardian

Britain would be "at the back of the queue" said the US president.

The Guardian

We literally and metaphorically put them at the back of the queue.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is these ones at the back of the queue that are most nervous about consultations.

The Guardian

"The cable companies are still at the back of the queue when it comes to launching digital services.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

I zipped up, grateful at being forced to opt in early, but joined the back of the queue in no hurry to jump in first.

The Guardian - Travel

So the threat to the UK is meaningless from a president who has not delivered even for those who aren't 'at the back of the queue'".

The Guardian

Shoved to the back of the queue for gallbladder removal?

Independent

For that could send Slovakia to the back of the queue.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "at the back of the queue", consider whether a more specific term like "last in line" might provide clearer imagery for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "at the back of the queue" when a situation doesn't involve a literal or figurative line. Ensure the context implies a sequence or order; otherwise, rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the back of the queue" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating where someone or something is situated in a sequence. Ludwig provides examples of its usage in various contexts.

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 the back of the queue" is a common phrase used to indicate a position at the end of a line or sequence, suitable for various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives exist, understanding the specific nuance and context is key to choosing the most effective phrasing. Be mindful of using it only when a clear sense of order or sequencing is present. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its versatility in conveying relative positions and priorities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the end of the line

Replaces "back of the queue" with "end of the line" offering a slightly more literal image of a physical queue.

last in line

Simplifies the phrase to indicate the final position in a sequence.

at the tail end

Uses "tail end" to suggest the concluding part of a queue or process.

bringing up the rear

An idiomatic expression that means being last or at the end of something.

at the bottom of the list

Shifts the context from a physical queue to an ordered list.

in last place

Emphasizes a ranking or competition where someone is in the final position.

towards the rear

Indicates a position near the back, but not necessarily exactly at the end.

at the hindmost position

A more formal or archaic way of saying "at the back".

in the rearmost rank

Describes a position in the last row or rank, often in a more structured setting.

trailing behind

Suggests lagging or being the last one in a progression.

FAQs

How can I use "at the back of the queue" in a sentence?

You can use "at the back of the queue" to indicate a position at the end of a line or sequence, for example, "Since we arrived late, we found ourselves "at the back of the queue".

What does it mean to be "at the back of the queue"?

Being "at the back of the queue" means you are in the last position in a line or sequence, implying you will be served or reached after everyone else.

What can I say instead of "at the back of the queue"?

Alternatives include "at the end of the line", "last in line", or "bringing up the rear", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "at the back of the queue" and "at the end of the queue"?

While both phrases are similar, "at the back of the queue" emphasizes a physical position, whereas "at the end of the line" can refer more broadly to the conclusion of any sequence.