at the beginning and in the beginning

jiang · #1 (**permalink**) 30-Nov-2005, 08:07

Dear teachers,

Both "at the beginning" and "in the beginning" are correct. Could you please explain whether "at' and "in" interchangeable in the following sentences?

1. At the beginning of a book there is usually a preface.
2. In the beginning the two of them disliked each other.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Thank you in advance.

Jiang

Casiopea · #2 (**permalink**) 30-Nov-2005, 10:07

To me, and in that context, "at" refers to the start of an event, whereas "in" refers to the beginning of a sequence of events.

jiang · #3 (**permalink**) 30-Nov-2005, 11:30

Dear Cas,

Thank you so much for your explanation. Now I see.

Jiang

Quote:

Originally Posted by Casiopea

To me, and in that context, "at" refers to the start of an event, whereas "in" refers to the beginning of a sequence of events.


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