right at the top

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "right at the top" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a specific location or position, often referring to something that is prominently placed or prioritized. Example: "The most important information is right at the top of the report, so make sure to read that section first."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Together, right at the top.

The New York Times - Sports

It's just right at the top.

University of California, Berkeley

They start right at the top.

The Washington Post

So here's one, right at the top.

The Guardian - Opinion

Do you think the problem starts right at the top?

The New York Times

Tennis right at the top of the game is exceptional.

The New York Times - Sports

"I definitely sniff right at the top of the play".

The New Yorker

We're right at the top of the swimming tree!

The Guardian - Sport

PEROT: That's right at the top of my agenda.

The New York Times

Most likely it'll be right at the top.

Harvard Business Review

Right at the top was the statement identifying Paul Maraspin as his father.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "right at the top" in a set of instructions, ensure clarity by visually separating the top section, such as using headings or numbering. This helps readers easily identify what you are referring to.

Common error

Avoid using "right at the top" when referring to a central element within a larger context; instead, use phrases like "in the middle" or "at the center". "Right at the top" is best suited for content positioned literally or figuratively at the uppermost part of something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "right at the top" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun or verb, indicating location or priority. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Examples from Ludwig show it used to describe physical placement (e.g., "Right at the top was the statement identifying Paul Maraspin as his father") or figurative importance (e.g., "Trade reform should be right at the top of our list").

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

19%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "right at the top" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase to indicate something's prominent location or highest priority. As Ludwig AI confirms, its correctness and usability in written English are well-established. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, it serves to direct attention to key information or elements. Related phrases include "at the very summit" and "at the peak", offering nuanced alternatives. When using "right at the top", ensure it accurately reflects the uppermost or most crucial position. Overall, this phrase is a valuable tool for writers aiming for clarity and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the apex

Similar to "right at the top", denoting the highest point or climax.

at the very summit

Focuses on the highest point, similar to "right at the top" but emphasizes the physical height.

at the highest level

Focuses on achieving the greatest degree or rank.

at the peak

Implies a culmination or high point, often in a figurative sense.

at the forefront

Highlights being in a leading or prominent position.

at the head

Similar to "right at the top" but suggests a position of leadership or being first in line.

at the crest

Suggests reaching the summit of a wave or a high point in a cycle.

at the zenith

Refers to the highest point, often used in a metaphorical or abstract sense.

in first place

Indicates being the winner or holding the top position in a competition.

in the lead

Emphasizes being ahead or in a controlling position.

FAQs

How can I use "right at the top" in a sentence?

You can use "right at the top" to indicate something is in the highest or most prominent position. For example, "The most important information is "right at the top" of the page."

What can I say instead of "right at the top"?

You can use alternatives like "at the very summit", "at the peak", or "at the forefront" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "right at the top"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that something is located in the highest position, either literally or figuratively. For example, "Customer satisfaction is "right at the top" of our priorities."

What's the difference between "right at the top" and "at the top"?

"Right at the top" emphasizes the immediacy and prominence of the location. Using "right" adds a sense of directness, highlighting that something is very clearly and immediately at the highest point, whereas "at the top" is a more general statement.