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sit at the desk vs sit by the desk

Both phrases are correct; however, they have slightly different meanings. 'Sit at the desk' implies sitting directly in front of or using the desk for work or study. On the other hand, 'sit by the desk' suggests sitting near or next to the desk without necessarily using it. The choice between the two phrases depends on the specific context and the intended meaning.
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Explained by Miss E.
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: September 13, 2024 • 18856 views

sit at the desk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when someone is sitting directly in front of or using the desk for work or study.

Examples:

  • She likes to sit at the desk to do her homework.
  • He sat at the desk and started typing on his computer.
  • I'll sit at the desk.
  • Now, sit at the desk and keep the line open.
  • Now, sit at the desk and keep the line open.
  • Well, you want to go over and sit at the desk?
  • And from now on you will sit at the desk where you belong!
  • The first day I became mayor, they sit me down at the desk - big chair and dark wood, lots of beautiful things.
  • You'll sit me at the desk and suddenly a lighning will strike and tomorrow my picture will be on the front pages with the title
  • I can see that, But how often do you sit at the edge of your desk With it in your hand like that?
  • I expect you to sit at your desk until your replacement is hired.
  • All Pawnee people, sit at your desks.
  • Philipp, pale and haggard, sits at his desk.
  • He sits at a desk all day And accumulates paper evidence.
  • Doris should sit at her desk and keep her mouth shut.
  • I want to sit at that desk - and veto a law.
  • Then you can sit at my desk.
  • Just go sit at your desk.
  • You're the guy who sits behind the desk.
  • When they find Harriet's body on a months, you sit behind the desk.
  • Don't sit at people's desks.
  • She likes to sit at your desk when you're not here.

Alternatives:

  • sit at the table
  • sit at the computer desk
  • sit at the reception desk
  • sit at the writing desk

sit by the desk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when someone is sitting near or next to the desk without necessarily using it.

Examples:

  • She sat by the desk waiting for her turn.
  • He likes to sit by the desk to read his books.
  • I'll sit at the desk.
  • Now, sit at the desk and keep the line open.
  • Now, sit at the desk and keep the line open.
  • You're the guy who sits behind the desk.
  • When they find Harriet's body on a months, you sit behind the desk.
  • You sit behind desks all day.
  • As I sit before the desk like a block of rock,
  • Well, you want to go over and sit at the desk?
  • And from now on you will sit at the desk where you belong!
  • I will just go and sit my desk, and be quiet.
  • I expect you to sit at your desk until your replacement is hired.
  • All Pawnee people, sit at your desks.
  • He doesn't just sit behind a desk.
  • Philipp, pale and haggard, sits at his desk.
  • So Amy's desk sits outside the CEO's office.
  • I sit behind a desk and input data a couple times a month.
  • He sits at a desk all day And accumulates paper evidence.
  • Doris should sit at her desk and keep her mouth shut.
  • You'd need a telephone book to sit behind that desk.
  • You were never going to sit behind a desk.

Alternatives:

  • sit near the desk
  • sit next to the desk
  • sit beside the desk
  • sit close to the desk

Related Comparisons

on your desk vs at your desk sit in desk vs sit at desk in the desk vs at the desk on the desk vs at the desk sitting at the desk vs sitting on the desk sit in the table vs sit at the table

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