"sitting on the desk" vs "sitting at the desk"

Question

"sitting on the desk" vs "sitting at the desk"

Both phrases are correct, but they convey different meanings. 'Sitting at the desk' implies sitting in a chair near the desk, while 'sitting on the desk' suggests sitting directly on top of the desk. The choice between the two depends on the specific location of the sitting position.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is sitting directly on top of the desk, which is less common but can be used in informal or playful contexts.

Examples:

The cat was sitting on the desk, watching the birds outside.
She likes to sit on the desk while talking on the phone.

Alternatives:

sitting on top of the desk
sitting on the edge of the desk
sitting on the corner of the desk

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is sitting in a chair near the desk, possibly working or studying.

Examples:

She was sitting at the desk, typing on her laptop.
He spent hours sitting at the desk, going through paperwork.

Alternatives:

sitting by the desk
sitting near the desk
sitting in front of the desk
sitting behind the desk

Answer 1

sitting on the desk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

sitting at the desk

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"sitting on the desk" vs "sitting at the desk"

sitting on the desk

sitting at the desk

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