Using the correct preposition after a word determines its meaning and can change a lot of the context of a sentence if you use it wrong. We’ll look at the differences between located in and located at in this article to see when to use each one.
What Is The Difference Between “Located In” And “Located At”?
Located in should be used when something can be found inside a particular thing or location (i.e., located in the box). Located at should be used when something can be found at a particular place (i.e., located at the restaurant). Generally, they are interchangeable as well.
According to The Cambridge Dictionary, “located” means “to be in a particular place” and can be extended based on whether we use the prepositions “in” or “at” afterward.
Examples Of “Located In” In A Sentence
Let’s look through some examples. First, we’ll start with using “located in.”
We use “located in” to show that something is found inside of something. Usually, it’s an object that can store things or a specific name of a place. It can also be used to refer to something that is within our proximity.
- The pen is located in the box over there.
- She is located in Arby’s right now.
- We’re located in the forest somewhere!
- The cake is located in the fridge.
- Are you located in the house?
- Which of these buildings is he located in?
In each of these cases, we can see how something is physically inside of something or close enough to us to use the preposition “in.”
We typically use “located in” when we want to find out a direct location of an object. We are either able to see the particular building or container and should be able to point them out during the sentence.
Examples Of “Located At” In A Sentence
“Located at” is seen as the more general of the two terms.
We use “located at” when we want to give a general idea of where something is located. It doesn’t have to be named, and it definitely can’t be placed inside of a container of some kind.
- They’re located at a restaurant somewhere.
- It’s located at the place where I left it.
- We’re located at the edge of the forest.
- You’re located at the cliffside.
- Where are you located at?
- We should find out where we’re located at!
Generally, we use “located at” to show a much less specific position. Usually, when we’re asking a question or trying to find out where someone or something is located, we’ll use the “at” preposition because we’re unsure about the answer and keeps things very general.
Where Are You Located In Or At?
When someone asks “where are you located,” it is usually followed by the preposition “at.” This is because “at” keeps things general and allows someone to figure out their whereabouts without worrying about exact place names or locations.
“Where are you located at” is the correct way to word this question. However, you usually don’t need to include the word “at” at the end. Instead, the question “where are you located” works just as well and keeps the question general.
It’s up to you whether you want to keep the “at” in the sentence or not. Most native speakers will leave it out under the assumption that we already understand that the question is general enough.
We don’t need to find someone’s exact location when we’re asking it; we only need to find their general whereabouts.
What Does It Mean When Someone Asks You “Where Are You Located At”?
The types of people that might ask you a question like this can vary. That means that the situation can be dependent on who’s asking you the question. However, when someone asks you, “where are you located at,” they’re always trying to find you and your specific location.
You may be asked by your parents if they’re wondering where you’ve been or where you might have gone. You may be asked by emergency services if you called them to tell them you’re lost. You may be asked by some friends if they want to meet up with you.
The situations can vary, but the meaning of the question is always to try and find you.
You may also like: “Where Are You Located” – Meaning & Correct Grammar
Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here.
