at your whim

USAGE SUMMARY

'at your whim' is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone having complete power or control over something, and in situations where someone can do something as they please. For example, "You can plan your vacation at your whim; there is no need to stick to a specific schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But Pirates! gave you the entire 17th-century Caribbean to explore at your whim.

The New York Times - Arts

Yes, when I see you, in your chosen gym garb, Starbucks in hand, I'm reminded of the three classes that I spent sweating on a mat at your whim.

Huffington Post

I am not a dog to be called over at your whim".

The New York Times

"Basically what you did was, you took a human being and turned them into a chattel, a piece of furniture, to be used by you at your whim," Phimister said.

The Guardian

With political posturing for campaign finance reform dominating the 2000 presidential race, why not just bypass the law altogether and buy and sell candidates at your whim?

Forbes

Once you've signed up for a $15 monthly subscription, you can download most tracks at your whim; 50 Cent's oeuvre won't cost you an extra nickel as long as you keep paying the monthly fee.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Just let me grovel and then you can fire me again and again at your slightest whim.

Huffington Post

I learned, the hard way, that the founder has to create his/her own optionality or your startup is at the whim of your investors.

TechCrunch

The more expensive rooms and suites also have the benefit of a St Regis butler, who will answer your every whim at the touch of a button – even if it's just to bring a cup of complimentary tea or coffee.

Independent

Instead of working at the whim of your notifications, pool all your e-mails/texts and check them at designated times (e.g., respond to your e-mails every hour).

Huffington Post

The Miis act like social intermediaries, messengers that send your secrets back and forth to your friends at a whim.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at your whim" to convey a sense of freedom and control. For instance, "You can explore the museum's exhibits at your whim, spending as much time as you like in each gallery."

Common error

Avoid mistaking "whim" for similar-sounding words like "will" or "wind." "Whim" specifically refers to a sudden desire or change of mind. Using "at your will" alters the meaning to suggest control over something rather than acting on impulse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at your whim" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts, suggesting its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

29%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at your whim" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase that grants freedom and control over one's actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and general use. While found primarily in News & Media and Wiki sources, the phrase carries a neutral tone suitable for diverse contexts. Alternatives include "as you please" or "at your discretion", offering similar meanings with subtle differences. Remember to use "whim" carefully, distinguishing it from similar words to avoid confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as you please

Grants unrestricted freedom to act in any way one chooses.

at your discretion

Emphasizes the freedom to make decisions based on one's judgment.

as you see fit

Highlights the suitability of the action to one's personal assessment.

as you desire

Focuses on fulfilling one's personal wants and wishes.

on a whim

Implies a sudden and impulsive decision.

at your pleasure

Suggests that fulfilling the request is a source of satisfaction for the speaker.

at your convenience

Prioritizes the ease and comfort of the person being addressed.

according to your wishes

Formally acknowledges and respects the other person's desires.

if you feel like it

Casually expresses the option to act based on one's current mood or inclination.

at your command

Indicates readiness to follow instructions or fulfill requests promptly.

FAQs

How can I use "at your whim" in a sentence?

Use "at your whim" to indicate that someone has the freedom to do something whenever they feel like it. Example: "You can adjust the thermostat "as you please"."

What phrases are similar to "at your whim"?

Similar phrases include "at your discretion", "as you see fit", and "as you desire", all suggesting freedom of choice.

Is it correct to say "on your whim" instead of "at your whim"?

While "on a whim" is a common phrase meaning impulsively, "at your whim" is used to denote that something can be done whenever someone desires. They have subtly different meanings, with 'on a whim' implying less forethought.

What is the difference between "at your whim" and "at your convenience"?

"At your whim" implies acting on a sudden desire or impulse, while "at your convenience" suggests doing something when it is easiest or most suitable for someone.