"in the office" vs "at office"

Question

"in the office" vs "at office"

Both "in the office" and "at the office" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "In the office" is used when referring to being physically inside the office space, while "at the office" is used when referring to being at the location of one's workplace.

Last Updated: March 08, 2024

Use "in the office" when referring to being physically inside the office space. It implies that the person is located within the boundaries of the office building.

Examples:

I left my keys in the office.
She is currently in the office working on the report.
The meeting will take place in the office conference room.
He spends most of his time in the office.
The printer is located in the office.

Alternatives:

inside the office
within the office
within the office space
within the workplace
within the office building

Use "at the office" when referring to being at the location of one's workplace. It implies that the person is at the physical site of their work, but not necessarily inside the office building.

Examples:

I will meet you at the office after lunch.
She is usually at the office by 8 a.m.
He is not at the office today.
Are you still at the office?
I left my laptop at the office.

Alternatives:

at work
at the workplace
at the company
at the job site
at the business premises

Answer 1

in the office

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate being physically inside the office space.

Answer 2

at office

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English. It is used to indicate being at the location of one's workplace.

"in the office" vs "at office"

in the office

at office

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