ENGLISH
REFERENCE

at the top of sth

prep. phr..
A2 Elementary Oxford

prep. phr.. This means being at the highest point of something, or in the most important position.

prep. phr.. Indicates the highest physical point of an object or location, or the most senior position within a hierarchy.


SIMPLE

The bird is at the top of the tree.

CONTEXTUAL

After years of hard work, she is finally at the top of her field.

COMPLEX

At the top of the agenda for the international summit was the urgent matter of climate change, overshadowing all other discussions.

Usage

This phrase can refer to a physical location (top of a hill) or a metaphorical rank (top of the class).

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'on top of', which implies placement on a surface, whereas 'at the top of' refers to a point or rank.

Pitfall

She is on the top of her class.She is at the top of her class.Use 'at' for a position within a group or hierarchy; 'on' is typically for a physical surface.

© 2026 English Reference