At full stretch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "At full stretch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is being used to its maximum capacity or limit, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The team was working at full stretch to meet the project deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At full stretch, however, he can do some pretty extraordinary things, repeatedly breaching the laws of physics.

Independent

Leicester were good in spells but rarely at full stretch.

The Guardian - Sport

At their back, four astonishingly beautiful tiger pelts are arranged, Catherine wheel-like, at full stretch.

Independent

Stefano Stuararo, at full stretch, steered it on to the outside of the post.

Independent

He's been working at full stretch, having created eight new works in two years.

The Guardian

Then he swoops into the dance, arching his back and moving at full stretch.

Independent

I was writing at full stretch to capture the intensity of my characters' lives.

Independent

This means fighting, at full stretch, all charges already made and still to come.

The Economist

Then Fellaini hit a volley on the turn that Schwarzer palmed aside at full stretch.

Independent

A curling shot by Therry Racon was well saved at full stretch by Higgs.

The Guardian - Sport

A further shot from the Frenchman was then saved by Jaaskelainen at full stretch.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "At full stretch" when you want to emphasize that something is being used to its maximum capability or limit, whether it's physical resources, personal effort, or operational capacity.

Common error

Avoid using "At full stretch" in situations where the effort or capacity is not truly maximized. Overusing it can diminish its impact when describing genuinely demanding scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "At full stretch" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI shows examples where it describes physical actions (diving, reaching) or effort (working, fighting).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "At full stretch" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize the maximum extent of effort, resources, or physical reach. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and high frequency, particularly in news and media contexts. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, be mindful of overuse in less intensive situations. Consider using alternatives like "to the utmost extent" or "at peak capacity" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To the utmost extent

This alternative emphasizes the limit or degree to which something is done, similar to being at full capacity.

To the maximum degree

This phrase also focuses on the limit or intensity, synonymous with utilizing all available resources.

At peak capacity

This relates to the maximum output or functionality something can achieve, often referring to physical or operational limits.

Stretched to the limit

This highlights the strain and potential breaking point when something is forced to its maximum capacity.

Fully extended

This implies a complete physical extension or reach, like a limb stretched as far as it can go.

With every ounce of effort

Focuses on the intense effort and exertion involved in reaching a limit.

Maxed out

A more informal way to describe reaching maximum capacity, often used in the context of resources or abilities.

At the breaking point

Implies that the maximum limit has almost been reached, suggesting a potential failure or collapse.

Operating at full throttle

A more figurative way to describe something functioning at its highest speed or intensity.

Tapped out

Suggests exhaustion or depletion of resources, indicating that maximum effort has been expended.

FAQs

How can I use "At full stretch" in a sentence?

You can use "At full stretch" to describe situations where resources, efforts, or capabilities are being utilized to their maximum extent. For example, "The team was working at full stretch to meet the project deadline", or "The goalkeeper dived at full stretch to save the shot".

What are some alternatives to "At full stretch"?

Alternatives include "to the utmost extent", "at peak capacity", or "stretched to the limit", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "At full stretch"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that something or someone is operating at their maximum capability or physical reach, often under demanding or challenging circumstances. Avoid using it when describing routine or less intensive activities.

Is "At full stretch" formal or informal?

"At full stretch" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it tends to appear more frequently in news reporting and descriptive writing than in casual conversation.