at their elbow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at their elbow" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is close by or readily available to assist or support another person. Example: "The experienced mentor was always at their elbow, ready to offer guidance whenever needed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

You aim it at their elbow".

The New Yorker

Standing at their elbow throughout the process were representatives from the United Nations and several foreign experts to advise them.

The New York Times

THE images have become mundane, and all the more dreadful for that: at a razor-wire barricade in Bethlehem, women in head scarves berate occupying Israeli troops while, at their elbow, children look on, absorbing the language of hate.

The New York Times

But it would be naive to claim that journalists covering facility trips do not write with a sense that the PR is at their elbow, however determined they are to keep him from the keyboard.

The Guardian

When she is escorting one of her contacts in public, her walk is businesslike, but she is quick to put a friendly, steering hand on their back or at their elbow.

The Guardian

Writers seldom do their best work when they've decided they're addressing the ages rather than the reader at their elbow: they nurse misbegotten caprices into full-grown enterprises; they speechify.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

When they opened them, they were the only two in the class pointing at their elbows.

The New York Times

Mr. Frank Mansfield experimented by visiting barrooms, sidle up to drinkers, and place reversables at their elbows.

The New Yorker

Police sentries sit on chairs in the shade with their old.303 rifles between their thighs and small cups of sweet tea at their elbows.

The Guardian

He kept one eye on 10 men competing in an international tournament, miniature flags from their respective countries at their elbows, and the other on seven American women vying for a national championship, a top prize of $3,000 and a spot on the United States Chess Olympic team, which plays in Spain this October.

The New York Times

Different backgrounds with groups of girlfriends entwined at their elbows.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "at their elbow" to vividly convey the idea of someone being readily available for support, guidance, or supervision. It adds a sense of immediacy and closeness to your writing.

Common error

While "at their elbow" is generally acceptable, be mindful of the context. In highly formal or academic writing, consider using more precise language to describe the specific type of support or proximity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at their elbow" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb. It indicates the location or presence of someone in close proximity to another, often implying support or supervision. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at their elbow" is a useful and grammatically correct way to describe someone being in close proximity, often in a supportive or advisory role. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage, it's important to consider the context and formality level when using this phrase. Alternatives such as "by their side" or "close at hand" may be more appropriate in certain situations. The phrase is commonly found in news and media, indicating its broad applicability in various forms of writing. Overall, "at their elbow" effectively conveys a sense of immediacy and available support.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by their side

Indicates physical closeness and support, similar to having someone "at their elbow".

close at hand

Emphasizes availability and readiness to assist, like someone "at their elbow".

in close proximity

Focuses on the nearness in physical location, relating to the idea of being "at their elbow".

within reach

Highlights the ease of access and support, comparable to having someone "at their elbow".

standing by

Implies readiness and availability to help, like someone "at their elbow".

in attendance

Suggests presence and availability for assistance, similar to being "at their elbow".

in support

Emphasizes the supportive role, akin to someone "at their elbow" for guidance.

readily available

Highlights the ease of access and support, similar to having someone "at their elbow".

closely supervising

Indicates guidance and oversight, resembling someone "at their elbow" for direction.

providing assistance

Focuses on the act of helping, as if someone is "at their elbow" to aid.

FAQs

How can I use "at their elbow" in a sentence?

You can use "at their elbow" to describe someone who is nearby and ready to assist. For example, "The mentor was always "at their elbow", offering advice and support."

What does "at their elbow" mean?

"At their elbow" means someone is very close to another person, often in a supportive or advisory role.

What are some alternatives to "at their elbow"?

Alternatives include "by their side", "close at hand", or "readily available". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "at their elbow" a formal expression?

It is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for most writing situations. However, more formal alternatives might be preferable in academic or highly professional contexts.