from the top

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "from the top" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to starting from the beginning or the beginning point of something. Example: "Let's review the project from the top to make sure we haven't missed any details." Note: This phrase can also be used to refer to starting from the highest point of something, such as "The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

From the top down.

The New Yorker

Take it from the top.

The New Yorker

STREISAND Right from the top?

The New York Times

From the top of the arc.

The New York Times - Sports

— the U.S. government — from the top down.

The New York Times

Let's take it from the top.

The New York Times

Corruption spreads from the top down.

The Economist

The propellant came from the top.

The Economist

What about the view from the top?

The Economist

The views from the top are amazing.

The New York Times

From the top!" It was heartbreaking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "from the top" to mean 'from the beginning', ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. For physical locations, specify the location (e.g., "from the top of the mountain").

Common error

Avoid using "from the top" without sufficient context. It can refer to either a starting point or a high physical location. Clarify the intended meaning to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "from the top" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate a starting point, either literally (a physical location) or figuratively (the beginning of a process). Ludwig examples illustrate both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "from the top" is a versatile prepositional phrase that commonly signifies a starting point or the highest position, as affirmed by Ludwig. Its meaning can range from indicating the beginning of a process to denoting a physical location. It is grammatically sound and frequently used across diverse contexts, including news, general writing, and business communications. To prevent misunderstandings, ensure the context is clear. Ludwig examples demonstrate varied usages. When referring to the start of something, alternatives like "from the beginning" might be more precise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from the beginning

This alternative focuses on the temporal aspect of starting at the earliest point.

from the outset

This alternative emphasizes the initial stage or starting point of a process or situation.

from the start

Similar to "from the beginning", this phrase highlights the commencement point.

starting from scratch

This implies rebuilding or initiating something without any prior work or resources.

from the highest point

This alternative emphasizes the physical or hierarchical upper position.

from the apex

This alternative refers to the highest or culminating point.

from the summit

Similar to "from the apex", indicating the highest point of achievement or a physical location.

from leadership

This alternative focuses on direction or guidance originating from those in charge.

from the administration

Focuses on decisions or instructions originating from management.

from the executive level

Indicates that something originates from the highest management level of a business.

FAQs

How can I use "from the top" in a sentence?

You can use "from the top" to indicate starting from the beginning, as in "Let's review the presentation "from the top"". Alternatively, it can refer to a high point, such as "The view "from the top" of the building was amazing".

What's a synonym for "from the top" when referring to the beginning?

When "from the top" means starting from the beginning, you can use synonyms like "from the beginning" or "from the start".

What can I say instead of "from the top" when talking about leadership?

If you mean that something is initiated by leaders, you could say "from leadership" or "from the administration".

How does "from the top" differ from "from the top down"?

"From the top" usually implies a starting point, while "from the top down" indicates a hierarchical structure or a process initiated by upper management and trickling down to lower levels.