Location

Question

Talking about a location.I don't even know where it's at.  OrI don't even know where that is.  OrI don't even know where it is. OrI don't even know where is it.Are all four ok?

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

Talking about a location.

~~I don't even know where it's at. Or~~

I don't even know where that is. Or

I don't even know where it is. Or

I ~~don't even know where is it.~~

Are all four ok?

Clive

Pleasehelp · Answer

When do you use 'I don't even know where it's at?'

When you're looking for something?

Andriy Lapin · Answer

Hello, Pleasehelp,

'where it's at' is a set expression that became widespread in the sixties of the 20th century. In an example like I don't know where it's at it means that the speaker does not understand the essential truth of the situation, so, as you see, there is no spacial implication. A sentence like I put my hat down and now I don't know where it's at is surely unacceptable - at is redundant here.

Additionally, there are similar phrases with this construction, eg

This place is where it's all at. - This is the place that is teeming with activity.
If you're interested in good food this is where it's all at. - This is the restaurant (cafe, etc) where the tastiest food is served.

Respectfully, Gleb Chebrikoff

Clive · Answer

Hi,

Actually, in current everyday English, it's not unusual to hear things like

I can't find my pen. Do you know where it's at?

Educated people usually frown on this as substandard.

Clive

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