"on the back" vs "at the back"

Question

"on the back" vs "at the back"

Both "on the back" and "at the back" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "On the back" is used when something is physically located on the surface of the back, while "at the back" is used to indicate a position further back in a space or a line.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

Use "on the back" when referring to something that is physically located on the surface of the back, such as a sticker on the back of a book.

Examples:

There is a logo on the back of the shirt.
She placed a note on the back of the photograph.
The instructions are on the back of the packaging.
There is a stain on the back of the chair.
He has a tattoo on the back of his neck.

Alternatives:

on the rear
on the posterior
on the reverse side

Use "at the back" when referring to a position further back in a space or a line, such as standing at the back of a room or sitting at the back of a bus.

Examples:

She is sitting at the back of the classroom.
The VIP section is at the back of the theater.
Please wait at the back of the line.
The parking lot is at the back of the building.
The kitchen is at the back of the house.

Alternatives:

in the rear
in the posterior
in the backmost position

Answer 1

on the back

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

at the back

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"on the back" vs "at the back"

on the back

at the back

Related Comparisons