"at a high speed" vs "at high speeds"

Question

"at a high speed" vs "at high speeds"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'At a high speed' is used when referring to a single high velocity, while 'at high speeds' is used when talking about multiple high velocities. They are not interchangeable due to the singular/plural distinction.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to a single high velocity. It indicates that something is moving quickly or at a high rate of motion.

Examples:

The car was traveling at a high speed down the highway.
The bullet traveled at a high speed through the air.
The cheetah can run at a high speed to catch its prey.

Alternatives:

at a fast pace
at a rapid rate
at a quick velocity
at a high velocity
at a swift speed

This phrase is used when talking about multiple high velocities. It indicates that there are several instances of high speed.

Examples:

The cars were moving at high speeds on the racetrack.
The particles travel at high speeds in a particle accelerator.
The aircraft can fly at high speeds to reach its destination quickly.

Alternatives:

at fast velocities
at rapid speeds
at quick paces
at swift velocities
at high rates of motion

Answer 1

at a high speed

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

at high speeds

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"at a high speed" vs "at high speeds"

at a high speed

at high speeds

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