at the top level

USAGE SUMMARY

"at the top level" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
For example, "She has achieved success at the top level in her field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"No one auditions at the top level.

Independent

"Jiang wants him at the top level".

The New York Times

"I will continue at the top level.

The Guardian - Sport

"He can't compete at the top level.

The New York Times

Rugby at the top level is about discipline".

The Guardian - Sport

I want another chance at the top level".

The Guardian - Sport

Vincent has been playing 16 years at the top level.

The Guardian - Sport

Today, they struggle to compete at the top level.

The New Yorker

At the top level, people are cautious; they're scared.

The New York Times - Magazine

'You have players operating regularly at the top level.

The Guardian - Sport

I worked for 35 years at the top level".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at the top level", ensure it's clear what hierarchy or system you're referring to. For example, "at the top level of management" provides more context.

Common error

Avoid using "at the top level" without specifying the domain or area. Saying "performance at the top level" is vague; instead, specify: "performance at the top level of athletic competition".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the top level" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to specify the context or scope of an action or state. As Ludwig AI shows, it describes where or how something occurs within a hierarchy. For example, "No one auditions at the top level."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

17%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the top level" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that denotes the highest position or standard within a hierarchy. Grammatically sound and widely accepted, it appears frequently in news, business, and other contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the context of actions or decisions. For clarity, it's best to use it with specific references to the relevant hierarchy, avoiding vagueness. Alternatives like "at the highest echelon" or "in the highest ranks" can provide similar meanings with subtle variations. This phrase can be seen in authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the highest ranks

Focuses on the ranking aspect, indicating a high position in a hierarchy.

at the highest echelon

Replaces "level" with "echelon", emphasizing a structured ranking system.

in the upper echelons

Similar to "at the highest echelon" but uses the plural form and preposition "in".

at the uppermost stratum

Uses "stratum" to highlight a layered structure, suggesting a position at the very top.

at the pinnacle

Similar to "summit", but "pinnacle" implies a point of great achievement or success.

at the summit

Uses "summit" to evoke the image of a mountain peak, symbolizing the highest point.

at the forefront

Indicates being in a leading position, often in innovation or progress.

in a leading position

Emphasizes the role of leadership and influence associated with the highest level.

in a commanding role

Highlights the authority and control that come with being at the top.

in the driver's seat

An idiomatic expression suggesting control and direction from a high position.

FAQs

How can I use "at the top level" in a sentence?

You can use "at the top level" to describe the highest position or echelon within a hierarchy. For example, "Decision-making at the top level requires strong leadership skills."

What are some alternatives to "at the top level"?

Some alternatives include "at the highest echelon", "in the highest ranks", or "at the pinnacle", depending on the desired nuance.

Is it better to say "at the top level" or "at a high level"?

"At the top level" implies the absolute highest position, while "at a high level" suggests a position that is generally high but not necessarily the highest. The choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean to perform "at the top level"?

Performing "at the top level" means functioning or achieving results at the highest possible standard within a given field or area. It suggests excellence and mastery.