do everything possible to avoid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do everything possible to avoid" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing efforts to prevent a particular outcome or situation. Example: "We must do everything possible to avoid a delay in the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

He'll do everything possible to avoid it".

The New York Times

He should do everything possible to avoid squandering it.

The New York Times

We ought to do everything possible to avoid getting into that position.

Princeton University

Potential client countries would do everything possible to avoid it, which would be good for everyone.

The New York Times

"A responsible country should do everything possible to avoid such a scenario," he said.

The New York Times

When they can, scientists do everything possible to avoid using animals.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

I did everything possible to avoid getting into combat".

Independent

We are doing everything possible to avoid that".

The New York Times

"Gazprom is doing everything possible to avoid any disruption of gas deliveries to Europe," it said.

The Economist

In a statement, Gutkowski said: "I did everything possible to avoid having to sue George Steinbrenner.

The New York Times - Sports

But it is doing everything possible to avoid talking about that before the election.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "do everything possible to avoid", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific actions are being taken or considered to prevent the undesired outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "do everything possible to avoid" when the outcome is already certain or highly probable. This phrase implies a reasonable chance of success through diligent effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do everything possible to avoid" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It indicates the reason or intention behind an action, specifically to prevent something from happening. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "do everything possible to avoid" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that conveys a strong intention to prevent a negative outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is versatile and suitable for various contexts, with a higher prevalence in news and media, academic, and formal business settings. Alternatives such as "make every effort to avert" or "take all steps to prevent" can be used in more formal situations. When using this phrase, ensure that the context and intended actions are clear to maintain credibility and avoid overstating the certainty of complete avoidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make every effort to avert

Changes the verb and uses a more formal tone.

take all steps to prevent

Replaces "do everything possible" with a more direct instruction to "take all steps".

try one's best to evade

Emphasizes avoiding something undesirable, using "evade".

do one's utmost to preclude

Combines "do one's utmost" for maximum effort with the formal "preclude".

strive to forestall

Implies proactive action to prevent something from happening.

seek to preclude

Uses a formal and somewhat legalistic term to mean prevent.

aim to circumvent

Suggests finding a way around a problem or obstacle.

work to obviate

Uses a formal term to mean remove or prevent the need for something.

ensure the avoidance of

Transforms the phrase into a noun-focused construction.

be sure to steer clear of

Emphasizes caution and deliberate avoidance.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "do everything possible to avoid" in a formal context?

In formal settings, consider alternatives such as "make every effort to avert" or "take all steps to prevent" for a more professional tone.

Is it always necessary to specify what actions are being taken when using "do everything possible to avoid"?

While not always required, specifying the actions being taken after using "do everything possible to avoid" provides clarity and strengthens your statement. Omitting the actions might make the statement seem vague or insincere.

What's the difference between "do everything possible to avoid" and "try one's best to evade"?

"Do everything possible to avoid" suggests a comprehensive approach to preventing something, while "try one's best to evade" implies attempting to escape or dodge something, often with a sense of difficulty or cunning.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "do everything possible to avoid"?

It's inappropriate to use "do everything possible to avoid" when the outcome is predetermined or when no genuine effort is being made. The phrase implies a sincere attempt to prevent something undesirable, so avoid using it if that's not the case.