At Once – Meaning and Examples
When a manager says, “I need to see you at once,” it means right now! This common idiom is used to express urgency. It can also mean that many things are happening at the same time. Learning at once will help you understand commands and describe busy situations.
What Does “At Once” Mean?
“At once” has two main meanings. The first is “immediately” or “without delay.” The second is “at the same time” or “simultaneously.”
Think of it like this: A parent tells a child to come inside at once. Or, a musician cannot play two instruments at once.
Remember, the meaning changes based on the context. It is either about speed or about things happening together.
When to Use It
You can use this idiom in urgent or busy situations.
- Urgent Commands: “Stop what you are doing and come here at once!”
- Simultaneous Actions: “Everyone started talking at once.”
- Formal Requests: “Please report to the office at once.”
The tone is often formal and strong for the “immediately” meaning. For the “simultaneously” meaning, the tone is descriptive and neutral.
Example Sentences
- You must leave this area at once.
- She felt happy and sad at once.
- The teacher could not answer all the questions at once.
- Please send the documents at once.
Mini Dialogue
Captain: “This is an emergency! All crew members must come to the deck at once!”
Crew Member: “Sir, we can’t all fit through the door at once.”
Captain: “Then come quickly, one after another!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The main mistake is confusing “at once” with “once.” “Once” means one time in the past, while “at once” means immediately or simultaneously.
❌ Don’t say: “I have been to Paris at once.” (This is incorrect if you mean “one time”).
✅ Do say: “I have been to Paris once.” OR “You need to decide at once.”
Practice Tip
Try using the “simultaneously” meaning this week. Describe a busy scene by saying, “Everyone was trying to talk at once.” It’s a great way to practice.
Final Note
This is a formal and powerful phrase. Use it carefully for urgent situations. For describing many things happening together, it is very useful. You will sound more fluent when you can use both meanings correctly.
