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Marriste Posted 22 years ago
Grammar

Correct preposition usage - "at"

Would you please advise if in the sentence: "I don't know (at) what time," the usage of the preposition "at" (ex. I don't know at what time) is as correct as not using the preposition (ex. I don't know what time)? Is there a difference between British and American usage?

Thank you.
  

Top answer

In American English "at" is generally left out. I don't know: what time they're arriving / what time it is / what time to schedule the appointment. Even in British English you could not say "I don't know at what time it is" to mean "I don't know what time it is".

— CalifJim

  • In American English "at" is generally left out.
  • I don't know: what time they're arriving / what time it is / what time to schedule the appointment.
  • Even in British English you could not say "I don't know at what time it is" to mean "I don't know what time it is".
  • As for the others, we'll have to wait for a speaker of British English to clarify.
  • CJ
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3 Answers
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In American English "at" is generally left out.

I don't know: what time they're arriving / what time it is / what time to schedule the appointment.

Even in British English you could not say "I don't know at what time it is" to mean "I don't know what time it is". As for the others, we'll have to wait for a speaker of British English to clarify.

CJ
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WE leave out the 'at' as well in a negative sentence but often include it in a positive one.

What time does it start at?

I don't know what time it starts!
or
I don't know when it starts!
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