Phrasal verb
arrive at
Definition
phrasal verb. To reach a place at the end of a trip. You can also use it when you finally reach a decision or an answer after thinking.
phrasal verb. To reach a destination or a specific point in space or time; in its figurative sense, it describes reaching a conclusion or result after deliberation. It functions as an inseparable prepositional verb that requires a noun-phrase object.
Examples
“We arrive at the train station just before the doors close.”
“After discussing the budget for two hours, the team finally managed to arrive at a decision that everyone liked.”
“After years of meticulous observation and data collection, the astronomers were finally able to arrive at a definitive explanation for the star's unusual flickering pattern.”
Examples
simple
“We arrive at the train station just before the doors close.”
contextual
“After discussing the budget for two hours, the team finally managed to arrive at a decision that everyone liked.”
complex
“After years of meticulous observation and data collection, the astronomers were finally able to arrive at a definitive explanation for the star's unusual flickering pattern.”
Usage
Use 'at' for specific locations like buildings and for abstract results like decisions or conclusions.
Teaching tip
Contrast 'arrive at' with 'arrive in' for geographical locations and highlight that only 'at' works for reaching abstract decisions.
Pitfall
We arrived to the station.
We arrived at the station.
Learners often use 'to' to show movement, but 'arrive' must be followed by 'at' for specific locations or 'in' for cities and countries.
Phrasal verb
Particles
at
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
arrive + at + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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