as thin as possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as thin as possible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the desired thickness of an object or material, indicating that the goal is to minimize thickness. Example: "For the best results in this recipe, roll the dough out as thin as possible before cutting it into shapes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Be aware that the thinness determines the final crispiness, so keep them as thin as possible.

WikiHow

He had always liked me as thin as possible.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then it can be roasted rare and sliced, cold, as thin as possible for sandwiches.

The New York Times

Because you're supposed to be as thin as possible on your special day.

The Guardian - Opinion

2. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice beets as thin as possible.

The New York Times - Food

Gently squeeze out liquid and shake out most seeds, then slice tomatoes as thin as possible.

The New York Times - Food

Peel the Chioggia beet and slice as thin as possible into rings – a mandoline is ideal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We tried to keep the case very discreet and as thin as possible".

The New York Times

4 To make the dumplings, roll the wrapper mix out on a lightly floured surface, as thin as possible.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Or, just slice the meat as thin as possible by hand, then chop it with a cleaver.

The New York Times - Food

"Then it became an exercise in difficult watchmaking, to be as thin as possible with maximum water resistance," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to slice ingredients, use "as thin as possible" to emphasize the importance of thin slices for optimal texture or cooking results.

Common error

Avoid prioritizing thinness to the detriment of structural integrity or functionality. For example, telling someone to make clay "as thin as possible" when making a boat can cause them to create something fragile.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as thin as possible" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates the desired extent to which an action should be performed, aiming for maximum thinness. Ludwig's examples show it often appears in instructions related to slicing, rolling, or layering materials.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

31%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as thin as possible" is a very common and grammatically sound construction used to emphasize the importance of achieving maximum thinness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. Predominantly found in news, science, and Wiki contexts, the phrase serves to guide actions towards optimal thinness, whether in cooking, manufacturing, or scientific applications. While alternatives like "paper-thin" or "the thinnest feasible" exist, "as thin as possible" remains a clear and direct way to convey this concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

paper-thin

Uses a common simile to describe extreme thinness, relating it to the thinness of paper.

wafer-thin

Similar to paper-thin, this simile relates the thinness to that of a wafer.

the thinnest feasible

Emphasizes practicality and achievability; it's not just about being thin, but realistically so.

as fine as it gets

Indicates reaching the limit of thinness, suggesting the finest possible state.

the least thick achievable

Focuses on minimizing thickness and implies a limit or constraint to how thin something can be.

as slim as can be

Uses a more informal and emphatic tone while describing minimal thickness.

extremely fine

Suggests a delicate and refined thinness, implying precision.

the ultimate thinness

Highlights that something should reach its thinnest form.

the most slender imaginable

Highlights the slenderness to the highest possible degree.

incredibly delicate

Indicates extreme thinness that also implies fragility.

FAQs

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

This phrase is typically used to describe a desired degree of thinness, often in cooking or manufacturing contexts. For example, "Roll the dough "as thin as possible" for a crispy crust."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "as thin as possible"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "paper-thin", "wafer-thin", or "the thinnest feasible".

Is it always desirable to make something "as thin as possible"?

No, the optimal thickness depends on the specific application. Sometimes, prioritizing thinness can compromise strength or functionality. It's important to consider the trade-offs.

When should I not use the phrase "as thin as possible"?

Avoid using this phrase in situations where extreme thinness might lead to negative consequences, such as structural failure or reduced effectiveness. In such cases, specify a more appropriate thickness or use phrases like "the minimum required thickness".