every possible means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "every possible means" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize that every available method or approach is being considered or used to achieve a certain outcome. Example: In order to improve their sales, the company tried every possible means, from advertising on social media to offering discounts and promotions.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

To do so, every possible means of attracting art consignors was used.

The New York Times - Arts

Over the past year the ACLU has lobbied against campaign reform by every possible means.

The Economist

"We had tried every possible means except giving in to terrorism.

The Washington Post

"He has hit rock bottom, and he uses every possible means, some of them thoroughly despicable, to hang on".

The New York Times

"There are those who left for foreign countries who still have their relatives in Laos and are supporting them with every possible means".

The New York Times

Martino watched Venezuela hack down Messi several times in the quarterfinal game and said the United States would certainly use every possible means to stop him.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

"For the TSA model to work, every single possible means of causing danger to an aircraft or its passengers must be eliminated," he continued.

Huffington Post

The PKK's statement said that because of the Justice and Development party's "war against [Kurdish] people," the PKK leadership would "step up its struggle in every area and by all possible means".

The Guardian

Senator Christopher J. Dodd of Connecticut said "every possible legal means" should be used to claw back the money.

The New York Times

Gangjeong villagers have used every possible democratic means to overturn the decision by Seoul to construct the base there.

The New York Times

We should have learned that we should try to exhaust every possible diplomatic means to solve the problem before thinking of any other enforcement measures".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "every possible means" to convey a sense of thoroughness and determination in achieving a specific objective. This phrase is effective when you want to emphasize that all options have been explored.

Common error

Avoid using "every possible means" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "every available means" or "all means necessary" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "every possible means" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It specifies how an action is performed, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the effort. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "every possible means" is a versatile expression used to emphasize the comprehensive and exhaustive nature of an effort. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in written English. This phrase is most commonly found in news and media, academic writing, and scientific publications, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using "every possible means", ensure you are conveying a sense of thoroughness and determination. Avoid overuse by considering synonyms such as "every available means" or "all means necessary".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

every conceivable means

Similar in conveying completeness, but emphasizes the scope of imagination or thought in considering the means.

every available means

Focuses on the practicality and accessibility of the means used.

every resource at one's disposal

Highlights the utilization of all available resources.

all means necessary

Emphasizes the determination to use any means required, regardless of potential consequences.

every measure imaginable

Similar to 'every conceivable means', stressing the limitlessness of the actions taken.

all avenues explored

Focuses specifically on the process of investigating and trying different options.

no stone unturned

An idiomatic expression conveying a thorough and exhaustive search or effort.

every trick in the book

Implies the use of a wide range of techniques, often with a slightly negative connotation of being manipulative.

all options considered

Highlights a careful and thoughtful evaluation of different possibilities.

utmost effort exerted

Emphasizes the level of energy and dedication applied.

FAQs

How can I use "every possible means" in a sentence?

Use "every possible means" to emphasize that all available methods or resources are being used to achieve a specific goal. For instance, "The team employed "every possible means" to meet the deadline."

What are some alternatives to "every possible means"?

Alternatives include "every conceivable means", "all available resources", and "all means necessary", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "every possible way" instead of "every possible means"?

"Every possible way" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning, but ""every possible means"" often suggests a more formal or strategic approach.

What's the difference between "every possible means" and "all possible means"?

While both phrases are similar, ""every possible means"" may subtly emphasize a broader range of methods, whereas "all possible means" can emphasize totality or completeness.