at full power

USAGE SUMMARY

"at full power" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is operating at its highest level of capability or capacity. For example, "The engine revved loudly as I accelerated it to full power."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With all four engines at full power, HB-SIA is only as powerful as a motor scooter.

The Economist

She wasn't always singing at full power.

The New York Times - Arts

Microwave for two minutes at full power.

The New York Times - Health

But fossil fuel plants run most efficiently at full power.

The New York Times

We're now full steam ahead and at full power".

The New York Times

Conventional microwave ovens always run at full power.

The New York Times - Tech

"I've closed the doors and windows; the air purifiers are all running automatically at full power".

The New York Times - Science

Patterns shatter into drifting, pure abstraction while the facial expression still reads at full power.

The New Yorker

While the loops are independent, the station cannot operate at full power with just one.

The New York Times - Science

"The plants are still on line and operating at full power," he said.

The New York Times

Stroking at full power, Liana could swear she was going backward.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at full power" to clearly indicate that a device, system, or person is operating at its maximum capability. This phrase adds emphasis and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "at full power" when you actually mean 'for an extended period'. "At full power" describes the level of operation, not the length of time it's sustained. For duration, consider using "for a prolonged time" or "continuously".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at full power" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the intensity or maximum operational state of an action or state of being. Ludwig confirms the correct usage and applicability across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

27%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

TechCrunch

2%

HuffPost

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at full power" is a versatile adverbial phrase that denotes maximum operational capacity or intensity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. Found most frequently in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, it serves to emphasize the extent to which something is being utilized. While generally neutral in register, it can lean towards technical or professional settings depending on the subject matter. Remember to use it to describe the level of operation rather than the duration of an event, and you'll harness its full potential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at maximum capacity

Focuses on the limit of what can be held or produced, rather than the intensity of operation.

at peak performance

Emphasizes optimal functioning and efficiency.

at full throttle

Suggests speed and intensity, often used in mechanical or energetic contexts.

at top speed

Specifically relates to velocity and rate of movement.

at full blast

Implies a high level of intensity, often in relation to sound or energy.

at its most potent

Highlights the strength or effectiveness of something.

operating at 100%

A more technical and quantifiable way of expressing complete functionality.

in full swing

Indicates that an activity or process is underway with vigor and momentum.

flat out

An informal term meaning to be working as hard as possible.

maxed out

Similar to "at maximum capacity" but more colloquial and often used in gaming or technical contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "at full power" to describe something operating at its maximum capacity, such as "The engine was running "at full power" during the race" or "The air purifier was set "at full power" to combat the pollution".

What are some alternatives to saying "at full power"?

Instead of "at full power", consider using phrases like "at maximum capacity", "at peak performance", or "at full throttle" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "at full throttle" instead of "at full power"?

"At full throttle" is best used when describing something that involves speed or acceleration, like a vehicle or a high-energy activity. "At full power" is more general and can apply to any system or device operating at its highest level.

Is "at full power" formal or informal?

"At full power" is generally considered neutral and suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.