The idiom "at your convenience" refers to doing something when it suits someone best in terms of time or circumstances. It embodies a sense of flexibility and respect for the other person's schedule or preference.

In short:

"At your convenience" represents a polite request to do something when it's most suitable or fitting for the person involved.

What Does "At Your Convenience" Mean?

The phrase signifies an accommodating approach that takes into account another person's schedule, preferences, or conditions. For instance, you might ask someone to reply to an email or return a phone call at their convenience.

Let's explore its core meanings:

• It communicates respect for the other person's time and schedule.
• It signifies flexibility and understanding in relation to timing or circumstances.
• While it is often used formally, especially in professional communication, it can be used informally as well.

Where Does "At Your Convenience" Come From?

The term "at your convenience" originates from the norm of polite conversation in English-speaking societies. It was traditionally used in letters and formal communication and continues to be used in emails and other professional contexts.

Historical Example

"My I. O. U. you can return to me at your convenience. And now let us have a little talk."

- Egmont, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1788

10 Examples of "At Your Convenience" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

• As per my last email, please send the documents at your convenience.
• Please feel free to visit our store at your convenience.
• Thank you for the information; please review the report at your convenience.
• Our support team is available to assist you at your convenience.
• On a side note, I hope to discuss the new project with you at your convenience.
• Please check out the new features of our app at your convenience.
• At your convenience, we would appreciate your feedback on our service.
• Please sign the documents and return them at your convenience.
• Safe travels, and we can continue our discussion at your convenience once you have settled.
• You can access the online course materials at your convenience.

Examples of "At Your Convenience" in Pop Culture

The phrase "at your convenience" occasionally appears in pop culture, often in scenarios involving formal communication or customer service.

Let's examine some examples:

• "Carry On at Your Convenience" is a 1971 British comedy film, the 22nd release in the series of 31 Carry On films (1958–1992), and was the first box office failure of the series.
• "For Your Convenience" is a 2017 American crime comedy film directed by Matthew R. Talbot and starring Matthew R. Talbot, Joseph Celia, and Ashley Argota. The film follows two teenagers who decide to commit crimes in order to help pay for college tuition.
• "At your convenience, we would like to talk to you concerning the death of your wife, Heather," is a quote from the 2013 book Jacob's Ladder by John Andes.

Other/Different Ways to Say "At Your Convenience"

There are numerous alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "at your convenience."

Here are some of them:

• When you have the time
• At earliest convenience
• When it suits you
• When you're able
• When it's convenient for you

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "At Your Convenience":

• What does "at your convenience" mean?

"At your convenience" is a polite phrase used to indicate that someone can do something when it suits them or when it's most suitable for their schedule or circumstances.

• How can I use "at your convenience" in a sentence?

You can use "at your convenience" in both formal and informal contexts to show respect for another person's time. For example, "Please reply to this message at your convenience."

• Where does the idiom "at your convenience" come from?

The term originated from polite conversation in English-speaking societies and was often used in letters and formal communication.

• Is "at your convenience" a formal term?

Yes, "at your convenience" is typically used in a formal or professional context, but it can be used informally as well.

• Can "at your convenience" be considered rude?

Generally, it's a polite term, but like any phrase, if used sarcastically or inappropriately, it could potentially come across as rude.

• What's the opposite of "at your convenience"?

An antonym might be "at my convenience" or "at our convenience," which would imply the timing is dependent on the speaker or another party, not the person being addressed.

• Can "at your convenience" be used in personal communication?

Yes, it can be used in personal communication to show respect for another person's time or schedule.

• Is it appropriate to use "at your convenience" in a job application?

Yes, it would be appropriate and polite. For example, "I am available for an interview at your convenience."

• Does "at your convenience" imply urgency?

No, it implies flexibility and respect for the recipient's timing or circumstances, not urgency.

• What are some synonyms for "at your convenience"?

Some synonyms include "when you have the time," "when it suits you," and "at your earliest convenience."

Final Thoughts About "At Your Convenience"

The idiom "at your convenience" refers to doing something when it's most suitable or comfortable for the person involved. It signifies respect, flexibility, and understanding toward the other person's time or situation.

Here's a quick recap:

• The phrase communicates respect for another person's time and schedule.
• The term has origins in polite English-speaking societies, often used in formal communication.
• "At your convenience" is generally used in a professional or formal context, but it can also be used informally.

While it's a common phrase, it carries weight in displaying respect for others' time and acknowledging that we all have unique schedules and circumstances.