at the highest levels

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the highest levels" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the most senior or influential positions within an organization or system. Example: "Decisions made at the highest levels of government can significantly impact the lives of citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Government corruption at the highest levels?

The New York Times

It happens at the highest levels of the Saudi state".

The New Yorker

And who agreed to it "at the highest levels"?

The Guardian - Opinion

The confrontations have resonated at the highest levels.

The New York Times

This is a problem at the highest levels, among elites.

The New Yorker

Only then will our students achieve at the highest levels.

The New York Times

At the highest levels of governance, I'm not so sure.

The New Yorker

This message is being articulated at the highest levels.

The New York Times

Senate retirements are at the highest levels on record.

The New York Times

We need to be competing at the highest levels".

Independent

I have always believed in women working in sport, at the highest levels.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at the highest levels", ensure that the context clearly defines the hierarchy or system to which you are referring. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "at the highest levels" without specifying which levels you're referring to. For example, instead of saying "the problem was addressed at the highest levels", specify "the problem was addressed at the highest levels of management" to be more precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the highest levels" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate where an action originates or where something is situated within a hierarchical structure. As shown in Ludwig, the examples show the expression referring to decisions being made, support originating or problems being addressed from the most influential or senior positions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the highest levels" is a grammatically correct and very common prepositional phrase that functions adverbially. It's frequently used in news and media contexts to denote actions, decisions, or support originating from the most senior positions within a hierarchy. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase conveys authority and influence and is generally neutral in register, making it suitable for professional and formal communication. When using this phrase, ensure that you provide sufficient context to clearly identify the hierarchy to which you refer. While there are alternative phrases, such as "at the upper echelons", "at the highest levels" provides a clear and direct way to express the involvement of top-tier individuals or entities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the upper echelons

Emphasizes a hierarchical structure, suggesting the top positions in an organization or system.

in the highest ranks

Focuses on the ranking or status of individuals or entities within a defined hierarchy.

at the top of the hierarchy

Clearly indicates the uppermost position in a structured system or organization.

among the elite

Highlights the exclusivity and select nature of those at the highest levels.

in positions of power

Focuses on the authority and influence held by those at the highest levels.

at the summit

Implies reaching the peak or highest point in a field or organization.

in leading positions

Emphasizes the role of guiding and directing others, associated with top-level roles.

at the senior management

Specifically refers to the level of management within a company.

in the corridors of power

Evokes a sense of political influence and decision-making.

among decision-makers

Highlights the capacity to shape strategy and define direction that top-level officials possess.

FAQs

How can I use "at the highest levels" in a sentence?

You can use "at the highest levels" to indicate decisions, corruption, or support originating from the most senior or influential positions within an organization or system. For instance, "The decision was made "at the highest levels" of government".

What are some alternatives to "at the highest levels"?

Some alternatives include "at the upper echelons", "in the highest ranks", or "in positions of power", depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "at the highest levels of management"?

While it may seem slightly redundant, specifying "at the highest levels of management" can provide additional clarity if the context doesn't already make it clear that you are referring to management positions. It emphasizes that the matter reached the most senior managers.

What's the difference between "at the highest levels" and "at senior levels"?

"At the highest levels" implies the very top positions, whereas "at senior levels" suggests positions that are high-ranking but not necessarily the absolute highest. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.