at whose pleasure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at whose pleasure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is done according to someone's wishes or preferences. Example: "The meeting will be scheduled at whose pleasure the committee decides."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"Thank you," he said, "first and foremost to the voters of New York, at whose pleasure I serve".

The New York Times

He is also, by design, a creature of the U.N.'s member states, especially the five permanent members of the Security Council, at whose pleasure he serves.

The New York Times

For now, though, Rossiya and First Channel effectively serve as information agencies for the Kremlin, at whose pleasure their directors serve.

The New York Times

Much like Eliot Spitzer, the governor at whose pleasure she serves (last time it was Mario M. Cuomo, for whom she was an assistant secretary and senior policy adviser on mental health and substance abuse issues), Ms. Carpenter-Palumbo, 44, is very enamored of statistics.

The New York Times

With an indefinite appointment and city-paid salary, Schimmel doesn't answer to anyone but the governor, at whose pleasure he serves.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Indeed, they already have for Durham, whose pleasure at a third consecutive maximum points haul was tempered by the news that Ben Stokes, the potentially world-class all-rounder who scored 180 here on Monday, will be out for six to eight weeks.

Independent

On a personal note, I would like to apologize to all those who lost loved ones in the crisis especially Her Majesty the Queen, whose pleasure I am currently at.

Vice

THE James Ensor show, which has had such modest fanfare that it seems almost to have slipped into town at the Drawing Center, is one of those gems whose pleasure involves serendipity.

The New York Times - Arts

Their stalker is a man whose pleasure is not so much in the killing but in seeing their fear at the thought of impending death and the way it makes them unravel.

The Guardian - Books

"The Merry Widow" was aimed at a pleasure-seeking audience whose pleasures are no longer ours.

The New York Times - Arts

Overloaded, frequently puzzling and erratic, this is an exhibition whose pleasures – and there are many – come at a price.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at whose pleasure", ensure the context clearly identifies the person or entity holding the power or authority. This avoids ambiguity and clarifies the relationship of dependence.

Common error

Avoid using "at whose pleasure" without clearly defining who holds the authority or discretion. Vague references can confuse the reader about the true source of power or influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at whose pleasure" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. As Ludwig AI shows, it indicates the condition under which someone holds a position or performs a duty, emphasizing dependence on another's approval or satisfaction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at whose pleasure" is a formal expression indicating that someone's position or service is contingent on the approval or favor of another. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and primarily used in formal contexts, particularly within news and media, and business settings. While not frequently encountered, it serves to underscore the power dynamics in hierarchical relationships. When using this phrase, clarity is essential to ensure the intended authority is unmistakable. Alternatives such as "subject to their approval" or "at their discretion" can provide similar meaning. Overall, the phrase adds a level of formality and precision to the description of dependent relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serving at their discretion

Focuses on the power of another party to make decisions regarding continued service.

subject to their approval

Emphasizes the need for formal consent or agreement from another party.

with their consent

Focuses on the agreement or approval of another party.

dependent on their favor

Highlights reliance on someone's goodwill and positive regard.

under their authority

Stresses the hierarchical structure and the power dynamic involved.

contingent on their satisfaction

Highlights that continuation is based on meeting the expectations of the other party.

at their command

Implies a direct order or instruction from someone in a position of power.

at their bidding

Suggests that someone acts on the instructions or requests of another.

subject to their will

Suggests a more absolute form of control or influence.

by their leave

Implies a formal permission or authorization granted by another party.

FAQs

How can I use "at whose pleasure" in a sentence?

Use "at whose pleasure" to indicate that someone serves or acts according to the wishes or approval of another. For example, "The director serves "at the pleasure of" the board of directors".

What does "at whose pleasure" mean?

The phrase "at whose pleasure" means that someone's position, job, or status is dependent on the ongoing approval or satisfaction of another person or group.

What are some alternatives to "at whose pleasure"?

Alternatives include phrases like "subject to their approval", "dependent on their favor", or "serving at their discretion". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "at whose pleasure" formal or informal?

The phrase "at whose pleasure" is generally considered formal and is often used in professional or official contexts.