"by the sea" vs "at the sea"

Question

"by the sea" vs "at the sea"

Both 'at the sea' and 'by the sea' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'At the sea' is less common and usually implies being physically present at the sea, while 'by the sea' is more commonly used to indicate proximity or location near the sea.

Last Updated: March 08, 2024

Use 'by the sea' when you want to describe a location near the sea. For example, 'Their house is by the sea, so they have a beautiful view.'

Examples:

We rented a cottage by the sea for our vacation.
The hotel is located right by the sea, offering easy beach access.
The town is a charming fishing village by the sea.
She loved taking long walks by the sea, enjoying the fresh air.
The restaurant's outdoor seating area is by the sea, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

Alternatives:

at the sea
on the sea
near the sea
along the sea
next to the sea

Use 'at the sea' when you want to emphasize being physically present at the sea. For example, 'We spent the whole day at the sea, swimming and sunbathing.'

Examples:

She loved sitting at the sea, listening to the waves.
The children played happily at the sea, building sandcastles.
We enjoyed a picnic at the sea, watching the sunset.
The resort is located right at the sea, offering stunning views.
The restaurant's terrace provides a beautiful view at the sea.

Alternatives:

by the sea
on the sea
near the sea
along the sea
next to the sea

Answer 1

by the sea

This phrase is commonly used to indicate proximity or location near the sea.

Answer 2

at the sea

This phrase is correct but less common than 'by the sea'. It implies being physically present at the sea.

"by the sea" vs "at the sea"

by the sea

at the sea

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