at full pelt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at full pelt" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something moving or operating at maximum speed or effort. Example: "The athlete ran at full pelt to cross the finish line first."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Production lines rumbled at full pelt.

The Economist

Economies are running at full pelt.

The Economist

France, understandably, were not playing at full pelt.

Independent

At full pelt it generates enough electricity to supply 2.7m households.

The Economist

But the only way of playing football that makes sense to Sánchez is at full pelt.

The Guardian - Sport

Still, that's not too shabby for a player who rarely starts the Masters at full pelt.

The Guardian - Sport

A big No8 spear-tackled me into our winger running at full pelt.

The Guardian - Sport

He was 82 and had never stopped working at full pelt.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There must be a bowling action; simply throwing the ball at full pelt towards the wicket is not allowed.

Independent

At full pelt, Girl Band are the most thrilling live spectacle that rock music currently has to offer.

The Guardian - Music

The midwicket Neil Wagner charged after it at full pelt, dived forward – and the ball fell between his outstretched arms.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at full pelt" to add a vivid and dynamic quality to your writing, especially when describing actions requiring maximum speed or effort. Consider the context to ensure the phrase's slightly informal tone is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "at full pelt" in highly formal or technical contexts where a more neutral phrase like "at full speed" or "at maximum capacity" would be more suitable. The phrase carries a slightly informal and energetic connotation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at full pelt" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig's examples show it is commonly used to emphasize maximum effort or speed in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at full pelt" is an adverbial phrase indicating maximum speed, effort, or intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While slightly informal, it's widely accepted and carries an energetic connotation. Alternatives like "at full speed" or "at full throttle" can be used in more formal settings. The phrase is frequently employed to add vividness and impact to descriptions of actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at full speed

This alternative is a more literal and common way to express maximum velocity.

at full throttle

This alternative emphasizes maximum power or effort, often used in mechanical contexts.

at top speed

This alternative highlights the highest possible velocity achievable.

at maximum speed

This alternative is a more formal and technical way of saying "at full speed".

at full tilt

This alternative suggests a reckless or unrestrained manner of moving or operating.

at breakneck speed

This alternative emphasizes the dangerous or risky nature of the high speed.

flat out

This alternative is an informal way to say that someone is giving their maximum effort.

full bore

This alternative is similar to "at full throttle" and suggests maximum force or energy.

at a rapid pace

This alternative refers to the swiftness of movement.

as fast as possible

This alternative is a general way of indicating maximum achievable velocity.

FAQs

How can I use "at full pelt" in a sentence?

You can use "at full pelt" to describe actions done with maximum effort or speed, such as "The runner sprinted "at full pelt" towards the finish line" or "The factory was operating "at full pelt" to meet the demand".

What phrases are similar to "at full pelt"?

Alternatives include "at full speed", "at full throttle", or "at top speed", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "at full pelt" in formal writing?

While widely accepted, "at full pelt" has a slightly informal tone. In very formal or technical writing, consider using alternatives like "at maximum speed" or "at full capacity".

What does "at full pelt" mean?

"At full pelt" means moving or operating with maximum speed, effort, or intensity. It suggests a high level of energy and commitment to the task at hand.