"in school" vs "at school"

Question

"in school" vs "at school"

Both 'at school' and 'in school' are correct and commonly used phrases in English. The choice between them depends on the context. 'At school' is used when referring to a specific location within the school, while 'in school' is used more broadly to talk about being inside the school environment.

Last Updated: March 08, 2024

Use 'in school' when you want to talk about being inside the school environment in a general sense. For example, 'Students are not allowed to use their phones in school.'

Examples:

She is in school right now.
I have to stay in school for an extra class.
He excels in school.
In school, we learn many subjects.
What do you do in school?

Alternatives:

at the school
within the school
inside the school building
within school premises
on school grounds

Use 'at school' when you want to indicate a specific location within the school. For example, 'I left my bag at school.'

Examples:

She is at school right now.
I will meet you at school after class.
He forgot his lunch at school.
Where were you at school yesterday?
The event will take place at school.

Alternatives:

in the school
inside the school
within the school
on school grounds
within school premises

Answer 1

in school

The phrase 'in school' is correct and commonly used in English. It is used to refer to being inside the school environment.

Answer 2

at school

The phrase 'at school' is correct and commonly used in English. It is used to refer to a specific location within the school.

"in school" vs "at school"

in school

at school

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