I'd like to know if there's any difference in meaning between 'where' and 'the place where' here.
I'd like to talk about where I usually play basketball
I'd like to talk about the place that I usually play basketball at.
I think both of them are perefectly the same meaning.
I like to play basketball where there are a lot of people.
I like to play basketball at a place where there are a lot of people.
I don't think there's a difference.
Am I right? Or are there any differences?
Best Answer
The only context these might differ is in a more complex sentence, such as one in which "where" might not refer to a physical place. Otherwise, you are correct, these have the exact same meaning, and do in the sentences you have provided.
As a possible example of an exception:
Note this would have substantially different meaning than:
In the first, where refers to the article written. In the second, where refers to the place one is playing the sport. In the second case, at a place helps clarify the meaning.