"in the beginning" vs "at the beginning"

Question

"in the beginning" vs "at the beginning"

Both 'at the beginning' and 'in the beginning' are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. 'At the beginning' is used to refer to a specific point in time or a specific event, while 'in the beginning' is used to refer to the start or origin of something more abstract or general.

Last Updated: March 08, 2024

Use 'in the beginning' when referring to the start or origin of something more abstract or general, such as a story, process, or concept.

Examples:

In the beginning, the universe was formed.
In the beginning of the book, the author sets the scene for the story.
In the beginning, she struggled to adapt to the new job.
In the beginning of their relationship, they faced many challenges.
In the beginning, he didn't know how to play the piano.

Alternatives:

at first
initially
originally
initially
to start with

Use 'at the beginning' when referring to a specific point in time or event that marks the start of something.

Examples:

At the beginning of the movie, the main character is introduced.
She was nervous at the beginning of the presentation.
At the beginning of the race, the runners lined up at the starting line.
At the beginning of the school year, students are excited to meet their new teachers.
The project faced challenges at the beginning, but eventually succeeded.

Alternatives:

at the start
at the commencement
at the onset
at the outset
at the launch

Answer 1

in the beginning

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

at the beginning

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"in the beginning" vs "at the beginning"

in the beginning

at the beginning

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