at what size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at what size" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when inquiring about the dimensions or measurements of an object or entity. Example: "At what size do you recommend we order the new banners for the event?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

We simply don't know at what size any given organisation – council, health trust, Whitehall department – works best.

The Guardian

The rules that have cast a net, and for some people, a shadow, over how the Sound can be used -- what fish can be taken and at what size, and what should be eaten or not -- were for the most part years in the future.

The New York Times

At what size, in inches, would you need to design your original stamp in order for it to be reduced to regulation size by 3 times its original size? 4. Having created a postage stamp illustrating a significant person, place or event, how might you expand that depiction on a larger scale?

The New York Times

Any attempt to divide the larger plates, which are assumed to last for a long time, from smaller plates, which may last for shorter times, seems to me to be arbitrary in that there is no easy way to define at what size this division should be made, apart from that discussed below.

Earth, Planets and Space

What is the balance between genetic drift and natural selection, or in other words: at what size is population size (i.e., drift) more important for fitness and population viability than habitat quality (i.e., selection)?

Evolutionary Applications

Rick had now developed a way to make much bigger aggregates and study such problems as at what size aggregates would start to exhibit bulk material behaviour.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

At issue is what size and how fast.

The Economist

Now run there and tell me, on the statue of Rocky at the top, what size shoes is he wearing?

TechCrunch

So I go and look at these clothes to see what size they are - and they're a size 1 [less than a UK size 6]!

The Guardian

All women (no matter what size) look at themselves in the mirror and think "what the hell is that looking back at me?!" Every person goes through the stage of self esteem issues.

WikiHow

It is good to list each of these as well as a total channel count at the bottom of the stage plot so that anybody looking at it can quickly determine what size of mixer you require, how many microphones, DI Boxes etc. they will need to provide.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at what size", ensure the context clearly defines what object or entity is being measured. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the question is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid embedding "at what size" in overly long or complex sentences. It can make the question difficult to parse. Simplify the sentence or break it down for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at what size" functions as an interrogative phrase, primarily used to inquire about the dimensions, scale, or magnitude of something. It sets up a question that seeks specific information about the physical or abstract "size" of a subject.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

29%

Wiki

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at what size" serves as an interrogative tool used to inquire about dimensions or scale. While grammatically sound, as affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is most frequently found in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. Alternatives like "what are the dimensions?" or "what scale is needed?" offer different shades of formality. Remember to ensure clarity by specifying the subject of measurement when using "at what size", and avoid embedding it in overly complex sentences to maintain readability. Ludwig's examples highlight its applicability across diverse domains, from organizational structures to physical objects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what is the correct size

Emphasizes the need for precision and accuracy in determining the size.

what size is recommended

Seeks an expert or authoritative suggestion regarding the appropriate size.

what is the ideal size

Focuses on the concept of an "ideal" size, implying a search for the best or most suitable dimension.

what dimensions are appropriate

Replaces "size" with a more formal term "dimensions" and shifts the phrasing slightly.

how large should it be

Simplifies the phrasing to a more direct question about the appropriate largeness.

what scale is needed

Uses "scale" instead of "size", which is applicable when referring to relative dimensions.

what are the size requirements

Focuses on the mandated or necessary sizes for a specific purpose.

what is the magnitude

Replaces "size" with "magnitude", implying a scale of intensity or importance.

what's the proper scale

Uses a contraction and more casual phrasing while retaining the focus on scale.

what is the extent

Asks about the range or scope of something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "at what size" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "what are the dimensions", "what scale is required", or "what magnitude is appropriate" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "at what size" or "what size is it"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "what size is it?" is generally more common and direct. "At what size" can be used when it's part of a more complex question or clause.

What are some contexts where I might use the phrase "at what size"?

You might use "at what size" when discussing organizational structures, population studies, or designing objects where dimensions are critical. For example, "At what size does a company become too bureaucratic?"

Can I use "at what size" when asking about clothing?

While grammatically correct, it's more natural to ask "What size do you wear?" or "What size is this?" in the context of clothing.