at the tip of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the tip of" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used when you want to describe a location that is furthest away from the main body or center of something. For example: "The lighthouse was perched at the tip of the rocky cliff."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You know, be at the tip of the spear.

Princeton University

Mozart found himself at the tip of Salieri's blade.

The Guardian - Sport

Does it always come at the tip of a spear?

The New Yorker

The lyrics appear at the tip of a crescendo.

The Guardian - Music

"We're at the tip of the iceberg of understanding it.

The New York Times

The mandibles are located at the tip of the snout.

Britannica

At the tip of that stake is Jerusalem.

The New York Times

Power is concentrated at the tip of the pyramid.

The New York Times

The small mouth is at the tip of the snout.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You have the world at the tip of your fingers".

The New York Times

Anthers (pollen-laden structures at the tip of stamens) release pollen after cap fall.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the tip of" to clearly indicate a precise location that is the furthest point from the base or center of something. For example, "The flag flew proudly at the tip of the mountain peak."

Common error

Avoid using "on the top of" when "at the tip of" is more accurate for describing a pointed or protruding end. "On the top of" is better suited for flat surfaces. For example, say "at the tip of the iceberg", not "on the top of the iceberg".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the tip of" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun to specify a location that represents the farthest or most extended point. This is consistent with Ludwig's examples that range from physical locations to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the tip of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate a location at the furthest point of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including news, academia, and encyclopedias. To use it effectively, remember to distinguish it from similar phrases like "on top of" and consider the context to ensure the most accurate depiction of spatial relationships. By understanding its function and avoiding common errors, you can confidently incorporate this phrase into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the extremity of

A more formal and less common way to express being at the furthest point.

at the outmost point of

Highlights being the furthest point and emphasizes remoteness.

at the apex of

Refers to the highest point or peak of something, either literal or figurative.

at the edge of

Focuses more on the boundary rather than the extreme point.

at the terminal point of

Emphasizes the end or final stage of something.

at the leading edge of

Highlights being at the most advanced or innovative part.

at the forefront of

Indicates being in a leading position or at the cutting edge of progress.

on the verge of

Suggests being close to a particular state or event, rather than a physical location.

at the brim of

Used when something is full and close to overflowing.

at the head of

Implies leadership or being in charge, rather than spatial extremity.

FAQs

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

The phrase "at the tip of" is used to indicate a location that is the furthest point from the base or center of something. For example, "The resort is located "at the tip of the island"".

What are some alternatives to using "at the tip of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "at the edge of", "at the forefront of", or "at the apex of".

When should I use "at the tip of" versus "on top of"?

"At the tip of" is more appropriate for pointed or protruding ends, while "on top of" is better for flat surfaces. Use "at the tip of the iceberg", but "on top of the building".

Is "at the tip of" formal or informal?

The phrase "at the tip of" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure.