the plane on which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the plane on which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific surface or level in a metaphorical or literal sense, often in discussions about concepts or ideas. Example: "The plane on which we operate our business must be constantly evaluated for efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

'Top,' the plane on which one could start detecting at least 20% of the field with stain-positive area for fibronectin fibers and one additional plane below.

Plosone

Airbus supporters said the trade panel had rejected some of the claims by the United States, including one that the A330-200 — the plane on which the EADS refueling tanker is based — also benefited from a loan tied to export sales.

The New York Times

Off-balance was the plane on which Monk existed.

The New York Times - Books

(number) The z-coordinate of the plane on which to obtain the field.

Stanford University

Chief among these quirks is the dramatic twisting of the signal's polarization — the plane on which the waves oscillate.

The Washington Post

The plane on which they had planned to escape accompanied by Zaidan was located, and U.S. Pres.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Traces of polonium have been found on the planes on which they are believed to have travelled between London and Moscow.

The Guardian

Schulman, the author of the New York Times bestseller This Beautiful Life, follows Amy Reed, the newly minted PR chief at a Silicon Valley startup that allows people to explore their "multitudes" — the planes on which all their alternative life choices play out simultaneously.

Columbia University

In a show of pride from the grave, obituaries of Boeing employees typically include the model number of the planes on which the deceased worked.

Huffington Post

Once more the enemy fighters flash in, machine-guns shatter in violent burst, explosions of flak fly over the targets and planes shudder as bombs are dropped.But the fellows who sit in the cockpit of the one plane on which the actions center are a dull pair and are rendered even duller by poor acting and weak direction.

The New York Times

All that had been excluded by the crop was the hostile speck of the enemy plane on which the Penguin one was swooping.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the plane on which" to precisely define a surface or level when discussing technical or abstract concepts. Clarity is key in these contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "the plane on which" in simple sentences where a more direct preposition like "on" or "where" would suffice. Overcomplicating simple ideas can obscure your meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the plane on which" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun. It specifies a particular surface, level, or area of focus. Ludwig examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, from technical descriptions to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the plane on which" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to specify a location, either literal or abstract. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While its frequency is common, its formality lends itself to technical, scientific, and formal writing. Related phrases such as "the surface on which" or "the level at which" can serve as simpler alternatives in less formal contexts. Overusing this phrase in place of simpler constructions should be avoided. Usage patterns indicate that the phrase is common in science, news, and encyclopedic sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the surface on which

Replaces "plane" with "surface", emphasizing the two-dimensional aspect of the location.

the level at which

Substitutes "plane" with "level", focusing on a more abstract or hierarchical placement.

the medium through which

Replaces "plane" with "medium", highlighting the means by which something is conveyed or occurs.

the stage on which

Substitutes "plane" with "stage", implying a setting for events or actions.

the basis upon which

Changes the structure to emphasize the foundation or reason for something.

the framework within which

Replaces "plane" with "framework", indicating a structural or conceptual boundary.

the area where

Simplifies the phrase to indicate a general location.

the domain in which

Replaces "plane" with "domain", suggesting a specific field or sphere of activity.

the sphere of

A more concise alternative that emphasizes the area of influence or operation.

the field where

Similar to "area where", but can also imply a field of study or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "the plane on which" in a sentence?

Use "the plane on which" to specify a surface or level where something is located or occurs. For example, "The sketching plane that you choose will be "the plane on which" the runner will open out to the mold surface."

What are some alternatives to "the plane on which"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "the surface on which", "the level at which", or simply "where" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "the plane on which" formal or informal?

"The plane on which" tends to be more formal. In informal contexts, simpler prepositions or relative clauses may be more appropriate.

When is it best to use "the plane on which" over simpler alternatives?

Use "the plane on which" when precision is necessary, particularly in technical, scientific, or abstract discussions. Simpler alternatives like "where" might lack the required specificity.