at the lectern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the lectern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone standing or speaking at a lectern, typically during a presentation or speech. Example: "The speaker stood confidently at the lectern, ready to address the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the lectern, Katyal began to speak.

The New Yorker

Art Garfunkel appeared at the lectern.

The New Yorker

At the lectern, he said, "It's a terrific place, Iowa".

The New Yorker

"Can you believe it's 2016?" Mirren exclaimed at the lectern.

The Guardian - Film

Our John seems to actually change personalities at the lectern.

The New York Times

Standing at the lectern, she gave an uncharacteristically apologetic smile.

The New Yorker

As photographers clicked away, he stood at the lectern, seething.

The New York Times

Ackman was next, and he used his turn at the lectern to defend Merkin.

The New Yorker

He seemed more threatened at the lectern than in the ring.

The New York Times - Sports

She said her star turn at the lectern "was kind of a freeing experience".

The New York Times

His turn at the lectern was brief, and his announcement anticlimactic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the lectern" to precisely indicate someone's location when they are speaking or presenting. It's particularly useful in news reports or descriptive writing where setting the scene is important.

Common error

Ensure you're using "lectern" to refer to the stand itself, and not confusing it with "podium", which can refer to a raised platform. While often used interchangeably, maintaining precision strengthens your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the lectern" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb by indicating location or circumstance. It describes the position of an individual, typically a speaker or presenter, in relation to the lectern. This is evident from the Ludwig examples, where various figures are described standing "at the lectern" while performing some action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the lectern" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that describes someone's location while speaking or presenting. As Ludwig AI confirms, it clearly communicates the setting and adds a touch of formality, commonly found in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "at the podium" exist, understanding the nuances between "lectern" and "podium" will enhance your writing precision. Remember, "at the lectern" accurately situates a speaker, contributing to a vivid and professional depiction of the scene.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the podium

Replaces "lectern" with "podium", a synonym that may suggest a slightly different physical structure.

behind the lectern

Focuses on the physical position relative to the lectern, rather than the action of speaking.

on the platform

Similar to "at the lectern", but emphasizes the elevated position.

at the microphone

Focuses on the equipment used for speaking, rather than the speaker's location.

giving a speech

Shifts the focus from location to the activity of delivering a speech.

addressing the audience

Highlights the act of speaking to an audience, regardless of the speaker's location.

delivering an address

Focuses on the formal nature of the speech or presentation.

taking the stand

Implies a more formal setting, such as a courtroom or debate.

before the assembly

Suggests a formal gathering or meeting where someone is speaking.

speaking publicly

Generalizes the act of speaking in front of an audience.

FAQs

How can I use "at the lectern" in a sentence?

You can use "at the lectern" to describe someone's location while they are giving a speech or presentation. For example, "The CEO stood "at the lectern" and announced the company's new initiatives".

What's the difference between "at the lectern" and "behind the lectern"?

"At the lectern" usually implies that someone is actively speaking or presenting, while "behind the lectern" simply indicates their physical location relative to the lectern, regardless of whether they are speaking.

What can I say instead of "at the lectern"?

You can use alternatives like "at the podium", "behind the lectern", or "giving a speech" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "on the lectern" instead of "at the lectern"?

While "on the lectern" might be used to describe something placed on the lectern (like a book), "at the lectern" is the correct phrase to indicate someone standing and speaking near it. The preposition "at" indicates proximity and purpose.