an all-time high

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an all-time high" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the highest level or peak that has ever been reached in a particular context, such as finance, sports, or statistics. Example: "The company's stock price reached an all-time high last week, reflecting strong investor confidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

solidarity has reached an all-time high.

The New York Times

Church attendance reached an all-time high.

The New York Times - Books

"Country is at an all-time high".

The New York Times

Illegitimacy is at an all-time high.

The Economist

"Stock Market at an all-time high.

The New Yorker

They spent $6bn – an all-time high.

The Guardian

Sarkozy's popularity hit an all-time high.

The New Yorker

Instead, murders hit an all-time high".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Stock market at an all time high.

University of California, Berkeley

"They are at an all time high.

Huffington Post

Political incorrectness hit an all time high.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an all-time high", ensure the context is clear and that the claim can be substantiated with data. Avoid using it hyperbolically; reserve it for situations where a genuine record has been achieved.

Common error

Avoid using "an all-time high" when referring to subjective feelings or situations lacking quantifiable data. For example, instead of saying "My stress level is at an all-time high", consider a more appropriate phrase like "I'm feeling extremely stressed".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an all-time high" functions as a noun modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, that describes a noun by indicating it has reached its highest recorded level. Ludwig shows examples where it modifies various nouns like "stock market", "gas prices", and "tourism".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an all-time high" is a phrase used to describe when something reaches its highest recorded level. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business settings. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to use it accurately, backing up the claim with appropriate evidence. Alternatives like "record peak" or "highest level ever" can be used depending on the specific context. It is important to avoid exaggerating or using this phrase in scenarios where the data can't be measured or quantified.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

record peak

Focuses on the peak value, emphasizing the achievement of a record.

highest level ever

Highlights the level attained, indicating it surpasses all previous levels.

peak performance

Emphasizes performance reaching its maximum potential.

historic high

Implies the high is significant in historical context.

record breaking

Focuses on the act of breaking a previous record.

uncharted territory

Suggests a move beyond previously known or experienced limits.

unprecedented level

Emphasizes that the level is something never seen before.

maximum value

Directly states the value is at its highest possible point.

zenith

Implies reaching the highest point or state.

apex

Suggests the highest point of development or achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "an all-time high" in a sentence?

You can use "an all-time high" to describe a situation where a measurable quantity has reached its highest recorded level. For example, "The company's profits reached "an all-time high" this quarter".

What are some alternatives to saying "an all-time high"?

Alternatives include "record peak", "highest level ever", or "historic high", depending on the context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "the all-time high" or "an all-time high"?

Both can be correct depending on the context. "An all-time high" is used when referring to a specific instance of reaching the highest level. "The all-time high" can refer to the record itself, as in, "The stock surpassed "the all-time high" set last year".

What does "an all-time high" signify?

"An all-time high" signifies that a particular measurement or value has reached its highest point in recorded history. It indicates a peak or a record that has not been surpassed before.