at three points

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at three points" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to specific locations, instances, or moments in time or space. Example: "The bridge is supported at three points to ensure stability and strength."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We collected questionnaire data at three points in time.

Computers & Education

No, a feeble attempt at three points was the result.

The Guardian - Sport

Nadal breaks back and we're at three points all.

The Guardian - Sport

We used a longitudinal one-group comparison design with data collected at three points.

Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care

At three points, the crescendos of the various groups coincide, resulting in those Debussy-like climaxes.

The New Yorker

The Japanese landed at three points on Java on February 28 and rapidly expanded their beachheads.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The trade center proposal called for two towers, joined at three points, rising 1,764 feet.

The New York Times

At three points near the summit, views over the surrounding valley are particularly rewarding.

The New York Times - Arts

Bridge deflections at three points along the bridge are used as the input to the algorithm.

Engineering Structures

Another poll, from SurveyUSA, put the President's lead at three points.

The New Yorker

SurveyUSA (in a poll for WXIA-TV, an Atlanta television station) and InsiderAdvantage both estimated his lead at three points.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at three points", ensure the context clearly defines what the "points" refer to, whether they are locations, times, or stages in a process.

Common error

Avoid using "at three points" without specifying what these points are. For instance, instead of saying "Measurements were taken at three points", specify "Measurements were taken at three points along the bridge's span."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at three points" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to provide information about location, time, or condition. Ludwig AI shows that it commonly specifies where something occurs or is measured, as seen in examples like "Bridge deflections at three points along the bridge are used as the input to the algorithm."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at three points" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to specify locations, instances, or stages, predominantly in scientific, news, and academic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing and frequent usage. While it maintains a neutral register, its formality leans towards the scientific and academic. To ensure clarity, writers should always specify what the "points" refer to. Alternatives like "in three instances" or "in three locations" can be used depending on the specific meaning intended. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively integrate "at three points" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in three locations

Replaces "points" with a more explicit reference to physical positions.

at three spots

Similar to "locations" but slightly more informal.

in three instances

Focuses on the occurrence or event aspect rather than a specific location or stage.

at three separate locations

Emphasizes the distinct separation of the positions.

at three stages

Focuses on steps or phases in a process.

on three occasions

Emphasizes the temporal aspect or the happening of something multiple times.

at three phases

Similar to 'stages' but can imply a more cyclical nature.

at three junctures

Highlights a critical moment or stage in a process or event.

at three junctures in time

Adds emphasis on temporal distribution of the three points.

in three regards

Focuses on the aspect of looking or considering something from three viewpoints.

FAQs

How can I use "at three points" in a sentence?

You can use "at three points" to indicate specific locations, times, or stages within a process. For example, "The data was collected "at three points in time" during the experiment."

What are some alternatives to using "at three points"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "at three points" include "in three locations", "on three occasions", or "in three instances".

Is it more appropriate to say "at three points in time" or "at three different times"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "at three points in time" might be preferred in more formal or scientific writing. "At three different times" is generally more conversational.

Can "at three points" refer to abstract concepts or only physical locations?

"At three points" can refer to both. It can denote physical locations like "The structure is supported at three points", or abstract concepts like "The argument fails "at three stages" of its development".