Do my level best

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Do my level best" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express the intention to put forth maximum effort in a task or situation. Example: "I will do my level best to complete the project by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"Whenever I am home, I do my level best.

The New York Times - Sports

I want Ukip to be the party that restores decency into our political sphere, and as such, I will do my level best to uphold those principles across the entire party.

Independent

"I want Ukip to be the party that restores decency into our political sphere, and as such, I will do my level best to uphold those principles across the entire party," he wrote.

Independent

After I have had my fill of enjoyment of the art in a picture, then I ask what it says, and I do my level best to hear what it says, and to take care to say nothing myself.

Harvard University

I really did do my level best to come up with a title for this that didn't involve a tail/tale pun but failed to think of anything better so you're stuck with it.

The Guardian

So the medium has 'form', although I do my level best to stick to the protocols of alternative comedy of the early 1980s, as well as to HL Mencken's useful nostrum about afflicting the comfortable and comforting the afflicted.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Stung, I did my level best this time.

Independent

"I did my level best in an emergency posture," Judge Kavanaugh said.

The New York Times

I did my level best to break down his resistance to attending even one of these performances.

The New York Times

With no cameras or recording devices allowed I am doing my level best to capture the key moments and scenes.

The Washington Post

Even when I'm doing my level best not to show favour to an operating system, it always creates a dust up in the comments.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, consider the audience. In more formal settings, consider using a more professional alternative such as "give my utmost effort".

Common error

While "do my level best" is generally acceptable, it can sound slightly informal or cliché in professional writing. Opt for stronger, more specific verbs that demonstrate your capabilities and commitment, such as "I will ensure", or "I will dedicate my efforts".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do my level best" functions as a commitment expression, indicating a speaker's intention to exert maximum effort. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a usable expression. This intent is often used to reassure or promise diligent work.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

16%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "do my level best" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that conveys a commitment to exerting maximum effort. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's important to note that the phrase is more informal and may not be appropriate for all contexts. As the analysis has demonstrated, this phrase is often found in news and media, but less frequently in more formal or academic settings. Remember to choose the language that best suits your audience and purpose, consider alternative phrases like "try my hardest" or "give it my all" for a more professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Give my utmost effort

Similar to "do my level best" but emphasizes the highest degree of effort possible.

Try my hardest

Focuses on the effort exerted, similar to "do my level best" but with a slightly stronger emphasis on personal exertion.

Give it my all

Emphasizes complete dedication and effort towards a task, implying a total commitment.

Do everything in my power

Implies using all available resources and abilities to achieve a goal.

Put my best foot forward

Highlights the intention to make a good impression and perform well, particularly at the beginning of an endeavor.

Exert maximum effort

A more formal way of expressing the intent to put forth a great deal of effort.

Go the extra mile

Implies exceeding expectations and putting in more effort than is strictly required.

Strive to excel

Focuses on achieving outstanding performance and surpassing ordinary results.

Dedicate myself fully

Emphasizes complete commitment and devotion to a task or goal.

Apply myself diligently

Highlights the consistent and careful effort put into a task.

FAQs

What does "do my level best" mean?

The phrase "do my level best" means to try as hard as possible or to make the greatest effort possible. It expresses a commitment to performing a task to the best of one's ability.

Is "do my level best" formal or informal?

The phrase "do my level best" leans towards being slightly informal. In professional or academic writing, more formal alternatives like "give my utmost effort" or "exert maximum effort" may be more suitable.

How can I use "do my level best" in a sentence?

You can use "do my level best" in sentences like, "I will "do my level best" to meet the deadline", or "The team will "do my level best" to ensure the project's success".

Are there any synonyms for "do my level best"?

Yes, synonyms include "try my hardest", "give it my all", or "put my best foot forward". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.