as gently as possible

USAGE SUMMARY

"as gently as possible" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to describe the manner or degree in which something is done. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as describing someone's actions or behavior, the way something is said or done, or the intensity of a feeling. Example sentence: She stroked the puppy's fur as gently as possible, trying not to disturb its peaceful slumber.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If he requested your honest opinion (and not just praise, another possibility), you should have provided it, as gently as possible.

The New York Times - Magazine

2. Cover and adjust heat so mixture simmers as gently as possible.

The New York Times

This forces the wonderfully benevolent owners to raise ticket prices -- as gently as possible, of course.

The New York Times - Sports

One of the men explained this to him as gently as possible.

The New Yorker

Stir well and allow to simmer as gently as possible for five hours.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But once you add the flour, proceed as gently as possible.

The New York Times - Magazine

I want to break this to her as gently as possible, but that isn't even a song.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The fly needs to land as gently as possible upon the water to avoid startling the fish.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Instead, after a year of treating my withering hair as gently as possible, I bought a blow dryer and fried it straight for him.

The New York Times

To insert the project as gently as possible into the city's existing fabric, Mr. Cruz broke it into six distinct developments.

The New York Times - Arts

Here, conservatism was a matter of joining oneself with necessity; compassion, a way of doing the job as gently as possible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone on a delicate task, using "as gently as possible" emphasizes the importance of care and precision. For example, "Apply the adhesive as gently as possible to avoid damaging the surface".

Common error

While grammatically sound, "as gently as possible" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "be careful" or "take it easy" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as gently as possible" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action should be performed. According to Ludwig, it indicates the degree of gentleness required.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

25%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as gently as possible" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that instructs on the manner of performing an action with minimal force or impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys the importance of care and consideration, making it suitable for a range of contexts from News & Media to Scientific writing. While its register is generally neutral to formal, remember to consider simpler alternatives in very casual conversation. When precision matters, "as gently as possible" effectively communicates the need for a delicate approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with utmost gentleness

Emphasizes the extreme degree of gentleness required, suggesting a delicate touch.

as tenderly as one can

Highlights the emotional aspect of care and affection in the action.

with the lightest touch

Focuses on the minimal physical force applied, emphasizing precision and control.

in the most delicate manner

Highlights the finesse and carefulness required to avoid causing harm or disturbance.

using a soft approach

Suggests a strategy or method characterized by kindness and consideration.

with kid gloves

An idiom emphasizing extreme care and caution, often used when dealing with sensitive topics or individuals.

as considerately as feasible

Emphasizes thoughtfulness and awareness of others' feelings, within the constraints of practicality.

as cautiously as is doable

Focuses on the prudence and awareness of potential risks involved, within realistic limitations.

with sensitivity and care

Highlights both the emotional understanding and the practical measures taken to ensure well-being.

in a non-abrasive way

Emphasizes the avoidance of harshness or aggression, ensuring a smooth and gentle process.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "as gently as possible" to sound more casual?

For a more relaxed tone, consider alternatives such as "carefully", "softly", or "with a light touch". The best choice depends on the specific context, but these options generally convey a similar meaning without sounding overly formal.

What's the difference between "as carefully as possible" and "as gently as possible"?

"As carefully as possible" emphasizes accuracy and attention to detail to avoid mistakes, while "as gently as possible" focuses on minimizing force or impact to prevent damage or disturbance. While they can overlap, the core focus differs slightly.

Is "as gentle as possible" grammatically correct?

No, the correct phrasing is "as gently as possible". "Gently" is an adverb that modifies the verb, indicating the manner in which the action should be performed. "Gentle" is an adjective.

When is it most appropriate to use "as gently as possible"?

It's most appropriate when instructing someone to handle something delicate, fragile, or sensitive, whether physically or emotionally. It conveys the importance of minimizing force or impact to avoid harm or offense. For example, “approach the subject as carefully as possible” or “handle the antique as carefully as possible”.