as normal as possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'as normal as possible' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to emphasize the importance of restoring or maintaining a normal environment, condition, or state in a particular situation. For example, "We are working hard to make sure the classrooms are as normal as possible for the students when they return in the fall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We'll keep life as normal as possible".

The Guardian - Sport

"You want it as normal as possible.

The New York Times - Sports

Keep it as normal as possible".

The New York Times - Sports

West Berlin tried to be as normal as possible.

The Guardian

We try to keep the cast as normal as possible.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We tried to keep things as normal as possible.

The Guardian - Sport

I want to keep it as normal as possible.

The New York Times - Sports

She wants things to remain as normal as possible.

The New York Times

"I just want everything to be as normal as possible," he explained.

The New York Times

"I've always said my job is really to keep her as normal as possible.

The New York Times - Sports

"I want them to feel as normal as possible," she said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as normal as possible" to reassure individuals in stressful or unusual situations. It communicates an effort to mitigate disruption and maintain familiar routines.

Common error

Avoid using "as normal as possible" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language that specifies the desired state, rather than relying on this general phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as normal as possible" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It describes the manner in which an action is performed, emphasizing an attempt to maintain or restore normalcy, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

15%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as normal as possible" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates an effort to maintain or restore a sense of normalcy, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying actions to convey an intention to minimize disruption in various contexts, especially in News & Media. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it's best to avoid overusing the phrase in formal writing in favor of more specific language. Ludwig AI also confirms that is perfectly suitable in written english.

Alternatives include "as ordinarily as one can" or "maintaining a semblance of normality", depending on the nuance you want to convey. The phrase helps reassure and set expectations during times of change or difficulty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as ordinarily as one can

Uses "ordinarily" to emphasize acting in a typical manner.

preserving ordinary circumstances

Emphasizes keeping conditions unchanged.

to the greatest extent of normality

This is more formal and stresses the degree of normality.

maintaining a semblance of normality

Highlights preserving an appearance of normalcy, even if not fully realized.

sustaining standard conditions

Focuses on sustaining a set of pre-defined standards.

proceeding as if nothing has changed

Implies ignoring a disruptive event to maintain normalcy.

in the most typical way achievable

Focuses on the method and its feasibility.

acting in a conventional manner

Highlights adhering to accepted behaviors.

keeping things routine

Simplifies the concept to maintaining a regular schedule.

simulating everyday life

Emphasizes creating an imitation of normal daily experiences.

FAQs

How can I use "as normal as possible" in a sentence?

You can use "as normal as possible" to describe efforts to maintain routine during disruptions, like, "Despite the construction, we're trying to keep the office "as normal as possible" for our employees".

What's a more formal alternative to "as normal as possible"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "to the greatest extent of normality" or "maintaining standard operating procedures" depending on the specific context and the desired level of formality. Each alternative subtly changes the emphasis.

Is "as normal as possible" grammatically correct?

Yes, "as normal as possible" is grammatically sound. The structure "as [adjective] as possible" is a common and accepted idiom in English.

How does "as normal as possible" differ from "as usual"?

"As usual" implies something is happening in its regular, expected way. "As normal as possible" acknowledges a disruption and expresses an intention to minimize its impact and preserve normalcy under the circumstances.