"on the desk" vs "at the desk"

Question

"on the desk" vs "at the desk"

Both "on the desk" and "at the desk" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "On the desk" is used when something is physically located on top of the desk, while "at the desk" is used to indicate someone's location or position near the desk.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

Use "on the desk" when referring to something that is physically placed on top of the desk, such as a book, a pen, or a computer.

Examples:

The keys are on the desk.
There is a vase of flowers on the desk.
I left my phone on the desk.

Alternatives:

on top of the desk
on top of the table
on the surface of the desk
resting on the desk
placed on the desk

Use "at the desk" when referring to someone's location or position near the desk, such as when they are working or sitting there.

Examples:

She is working at the desk.
He is sitting at the desk.
There is a computer at the desk.

Alternatives:

near the desk
by the desk
beside the desk
next to the desk
close to the desk

Answer 1

on the desk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something is physically located on top of the desk.

Answer 2

at the desk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate someone's location or position near the desk.

"on the desk" vs "at the desk"

on the desk

at the desk

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