at maximum speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at maximum speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the highest possible rate of movement or operation of an object or process. Example: "The train was traveling at maximum speed to reach its destination on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She seemed to do everything at maximum speed, aware of the extreme urgency of the situation.

The Guardian

By Labor Day, perhaps, relief wells, now being drilled at maximum speed, will still the gusher.

The New Yorker

He never seems in a hurry, even when moving at maximum speed.

The Guardian - Sport

Ideally, the masks would filter out harmful air particles, yet still allow the athletes to perform at maximum speed.

The New York Times - Sports

The extract was clarified by centrifugation at maximum speed for 10 min in a tabletop centrifuge at 4 °C.

Nature

If science has limits, then it might be moving at maximum speed just before it hits the wall.

The New York Times - Science

During each session, athletes performed three solo sprint trials at maximum speed.

Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport

He said an investigation should be held at "maximum speed".

BBC

In the video below they were printing at 50 microns at maximum speed.

TechCrunch

The Config 12 shape, as it stands, has a drag coefficient of 1.4 at maximum speed.

BBC

Turbulence Intensity, measured at the contraction nozzle section was lower than 0.5%% at maximum speed [27].

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing motion or processes, use "at maximum speed" to clearly communicate the highest rate of operation or movement. For example, "The centrifuge was run at maximum speed to separate the components efficiently."

Common error

Avoid using "at maximum speed" in contexts where precision is needed. For instance, instead of saying "The data was processed at maximum speed", specify the actual processing rate or parameters if known.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at maximum speed" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to specify the rate or velocity at which an action is performed. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples where the phrase describes the manner of movement or operation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at maximum speed" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to describe actions or processes performed at their highest possible rate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's prevalent in scientific and news contexts, with a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. While alternatives like "at top speed" or "as fast as possible" exist, the best choice depends on the specific nuance and formality desired. When using this phrase, ensure contextual appropriateness and consider specifying precise rates when necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at top speed

Indicates the highest attainable speed, similar to "at maximum speed" but perhaps implying a limit has been reached.

at full throttle

Conveys the idea of operating at full power, which is often synonymous with maximum speed, particularly in mechanical contexts.

at peak velocity

A more technical and formal way to describe maximum speed, often used in scientific contexts.

at full pelt

An informal idiom indicating moving as fast as possible.

at breakneck speed

Emphasizes the dangerous or reckless nature of the speed.

at warp speed

Implies a very high or accelerated pace, often used metaphorically.

at lightning speed

Emphasizes quickness and rapidity of motion.

as fast as possible

A more literal and less emphatic way of expressing maximum speed.

with utmost haste

Highlights the urgency and speed of action.

as quickly as possible

A straightforward alternative, focusing on minimizing time.

FAQs

How can I use "at maximum speed" in a sentence?

You can use "at maximum speed" to describe processes or movements happening as fast as possible. For instance, "The car was traveling "at maximum speed" on the highway" or "The lab equipment was operating "at maximum speed" to complete the experiment quickly".

What are some alternatives to "at maximum speed"?

Alternatives to "at maximum speed" include "at top speed", "at full throttle", or "as fast as possible". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "at maximum speed" or "at maximum velocity"?

While both phrases are similar, "at maximum velocity" is more precise and often used in technical or scientific contexts. "At maximum speed" is more common in general usage.

In what situations is "at maximum speed" most appropriate?

"At maximum speed" is suitable when describing the fastest possible rate of operation, whether it's a vehicle, a machine, or a biological process. It's a versatile phrase applicable across various contexts.