at full stretch

USAGE SUMMARY

'at full stretch' is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It typically means to be doing something to the fullest possible extent or to be fully extended. For example, "I was reaching at full stretch to grab the book off the top shelf".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Cech does well to gather at full stretch.

The Guardian - Sport

Leicester were good in spells but rarely at full stretch.

The Guardian - Sport

At their back, four astonishingly beautiful tiger pelts are arranged, Catherine wheel-like, at full stretch.

Independent

Stefano Stuararo, at full stretch, steered it on to the outside of the post.

Independent

He's been working at full stretch, having created eight new works in two years.

The Guardian

Then he swoops into the dance, arching his back and moving at full stretch.

Independent

I was writing at full stretch to capture the intensity of my characters' lives.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Khune pushes it behind at full-stretch.

The Guardian - Sport

Forde was at full-stretch to keep out Bastian Schweinsteiger's shot before Neuer saved low to deny Stokes.

BBC

David Luiz was at full-stretch to cut out Giovani dos Santos' clever cross as Mexico pushed again.

BBC

The Spanish striker took the spot-kick himself but Hazard dived at full-stretch to make a terrific save.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical actions like reaching or stretching, "at full stretch" is an evocative way to convey the extent of the movement. For example, instead of saying "He reached far", say "He reached at full stretch."

Common error

While "at full stretch" is acceptable, it can sound less formal than alternatives like "to the maximum extent" or "at maximum capacity", especially in academic or business contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at full stretch" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates that someone or something is extended to its limit or is exerting maximum effort. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a valid phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at full stretch" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to convey maximum effort or extension. Ludwig AI validates its usage and shows it's "very common" in English, particularly within News & Media. While grammatically sound, it's essential to consider the context and register; in more formal settings, alternatives like "to the maximum extent" might be more appropriate. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, the phrase effectively communicates the intensity of an action, whether it's a physical feat or a demanding task.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the maximum extent

This alternative emphasizes the degree to which something is done, focusing on the limit or boundary reached.

to the fullest

This phrase highlights the completeness of the action or experience, suggesting that nothing is left undone.

at maximum capacity

This alternative is used when physical capacity is relevant.

working flat out

This emphasizes the intensity and speed of the work being done.

giving it all one has

This focuses on the personal effort and commitment involved.

pushing oneself to the limit

This alternative highlights the personal strain and effort involved in reaching the maximum.

going the extra mile

This implies exceeding the expected level of effort or performance.

exerting maximum effort

This alternative clearly expresses effort.

using all available resources

This emphasizes the resources being employed.

with every fiber of one's being

This highlights the comprehensive nature of the effort, involving all aspects of a person.

FAQs

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

You can use "at full stretch" to describe physical extension, like "The goalkeeper dived "at full stretch" to save the penalty", or to describe maximum effort, such as "The team was working "at full stretch" to meet the deadline".

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

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "to the fullest", "at maximum capacity", or "working flat out" as alternatives to "at full stretch".

Is "at full stretch" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "at full stretch" may be perceived as less formal. In academic or business contexts, consider using alternatives like "to the maximum extent" or "at maximum capacity".

In what situations is "at full stretch" most appropriately used?

"At full stretch" is effective when describing physical extension or the exertion of maximum effort in a particular activity. It is frequently used in news and sports reporting.