as well as possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as well as possible" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that an action was done to the highest degree. For example, "He completed the project as well as possible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I position myself as well as possible.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Duplicate the diagram as well as possible.

The New York Times - Tech

"I tried to get involved as well as possible".

The Guardian - Sport

We did as well as possible to defend".

The New York Times - Sports

Limitations as well as possible research directions are also discussed.

Computers & Education

The building blocks as well as possible configurations are discussed.

Computer Networks

Such a result would be desirable, as well as possible.

The Economist

"We absolutely support any move to prepare children as well as possible for secondary school.

The Guardian

It is important that we try to secure ourselves as well as possible.

The New York Times

"It's very simple -- to inform as much as possible, as well as possible.

The New York Times

Wealthy teams like the Yankees set the pattern, and other teams follow as well as possible.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as well as possible" to emphasize that an action or task was performed to the highest standard achievable given the circumstances. For example, "We prepared the presentation as well as possible with the limited resources available."

Common error

While grammatically sound, "as well as possible" can sometimes sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "the best I/we could" or "as best we could" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as well as possible" functions as an adverbial modifier, describing the extent to which an action is performed. As Ludwig AI also suggests, it emphasizes performing an action to the highest achievable degree. The examples show a wide range of applications in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as well as possible" is a versatile and grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to emphasize that an action was performed to the highest achievable standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and employed across various contexts. Its frequency is high, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. While generally neutral in tone, it is more appropriate in formal and professional contexts. When aiming for concision or a more casual tone, consider using alternatives like "to the best of one's ability" or "optimally". This makes the expression very handy for any circumstance that requires clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To the best of one's ability

Replaces "as well as possible" with a more explicit and personal emphasis on individual capability.

To the fullest extent

Emphasizes the completeness and thoroughness of the action performed.

As effectively as one can

Focuses on the efficiency and success of the action, rather than just the effort.

To a maximum degree

Highlights the intensity and scale of the effort or result.

To the greatest degree imaginable

Adds an element of hyperbole to stress the comprehensiveness of the effort.

With maximum effort

Shifts focus from the result to the level of effort applied.

To the best of our capabilities

Highlights the skills and potential to perform in a certain way.

Optimally

A shorter, more concise way to express achieving the best possible outcome.

In the best way achievable

Describes the result is one way that you can make.

To its absolute limit

It's a strong way to indicate that something is used in a certain way.

FAQs

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

Use "as well as possible" to describe an action done to the highest degree achievable. For instance, "We tried to secure the building "as well as possible"" or "The team prepared "as best as possible" for the competition".

What are some alternatives to "as well as possible"?

Alternatives include "to the best of one's ability", "to the fullest extent", or "optimally" depending on the context. Each alternative provides a slightly different nuance while maintaining the core meaning.

Is "as good as possible" the same as "as well as possible"?

While similar, "as good as possible" focuses more on the quality of the outcome, whereas "as well as possible" emphasizes the manner or effort put into achieving that outcome. Use "as good as possible" when you want to point out the quality standards have been met.

Which is correct: "as well as is possible" or "as well as possible"?

"As well as possible" is the more concise and commonly used form. "As well as is possible" is grammatically correct, but it's less idiomatic and can sound awkward in most contexts. So, it's recommended to use the short form.