China is developing "with / at" lightning speed.

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hereinchina
Posts: 119
Joined: Fri May 29, 2009 1:47 pm

China is developing "with / at" lightning speed.

Post by hereinchina » Mon Apr 18, 2011 11:41 am

Hello ,
I'm not sure if I should say "at lightning speed" or "with lightning speed" in the following sentences, or if either way is grammatically correct.
1. The plane flew "with / at" lightning speed.
2. She talks "with / at" lightning speed.
3. China is developing "with / at" lightning speed.
4. He works "with / at" lightning speed.
Is there a grammar rule about using the word "with" or "at" when you are using it in combination with the expression "lightning speed"?

fluffyhamster
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Joined: Tue Oct 26, 2004 6:57 pm
Location: UK > China > Japan > UK again

Post by fluffyhamster » Wed Apr 27, 2011 11:08 am

At a practical level, there seems hardly any difference in meaning between them (though doubtless some hefty monograph on prepositions would leave no stone unturned in saying otherwise). As for grammar rules, each appears perfectly grammatical.

hereinchina
Posts: 119
Joined: Fri May 29, 2009 1:47 pm

thank you

Post by hereinchina » Sat Apr 30, 2011 2:48 am

Hello,
Thank you very much for taking the time to answer my question.
Best wishes

fancypants
Posts: 5
Joined: Sun Feb 05, 2006 4:21 pm
Location: canada

Post by fancypants » Sat May 07, 2011 3:18 pm

While both are grammatically correct, "at lightning speed" sounds better, as the preposition "at" collocates with "lightning speed" (they tend to occur together).

This collocation can be seen at work in "at breakneck speed" as well.

hereinchina
Posts: 119
Joined: Fri May 29, 2009 1:47 pm

thank you

Post by hereinchina » Sun May 15, 2011 11:45 am

I want to thank you for taking the time to answer my question. :D

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