highest things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "highest things" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the most elevated or significant concepts, values, or objects in a particular context. Example: "In philosophy, the pursuit of the highest things often leads to profound insights about existence and morality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

On the economic side, where hopes were initially highest, things have not gone too well.

The New York Times

We ask you to help give us the leaders who will be motivated only by the highest things, the things of good, not things of self, not anything personal, not anything selfish but a true love of the city".

The New York Times

Nor do I think those are the highest things a person can achieve.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's the highest thing you can achieve.

The Guardian - Sport

"You can't find the highest thing to jump from in order to practice your rolls.

The New Yorker

The achievement of elegance is the highest thing that a human being can do.

The New Yorker

And because it is the highest thing around, there are hardly any winds coming downhill to rile things up.

The New York Times - Science

I'm the highest thing in the landscape, flying through beautiful grassland filled with pink clover, dog rose and hogweed.

The Guardian - Travel

"Playing for your country is probably the highest thing you can ever achieve.

BBC

"The highest thing in the minds of the teams is income - because without that they've got nothing.

BBC

Madeline laughs and climbs to the top of the highest thing she can scale.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "highest things", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes 'highest' within that specific situation. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the values, goals, or achievements you are referencing.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "highest things" can sound overly formal or pretentious in casual conversation. Opt for simpler, more direct language when communicating informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "highest things" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it refers to elevated concepts, values, or goals. Its role is to encapsulate abstract or aspirational entities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the noun phrase "highest things" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to represent elevated goals, values, or achievements. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, while not overly common, it's readily understood and appears in various reputable sources, including The New York Times and The Guardian. It carries a formal tone, making it suitable for thoughtful discussions, philosophical contexts, or when emphasizing the utmost importance of something. Consider alternatives such as "loftiest ideals" or "greatest achievements" to fine-tune your message. When using "highest things", clarity in context is crucial to ensure your audience understands what 'highest' represents in your specific scenario.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

loftiest ideals

Focuses on ideals, implying a moral or aspirational element not always present in "highest things".

greatest achievements

Specifically refers to accomplishments, narrowing the scope from broader values or goals.

ultimate goals

Highlights the finality or most important nature of the goals, adding emphasis.

noblest aspirations

Emphasizes the moral high ground and ambitious nature of the aspirations.

most valued principles

Shifts the focus to guiding beliefs and standards rather than general pursuits.

supreme objectives

Highlights objectives by indicating a sense of importance and prioritisation of a goal.

most important matters

Focuses on the significance of the issues, instead of goals or achievements.

finest qualities

Changes the focus to inherent attributes rather than external accomplishments or goals.

most elevated concepts

Refers to abstract ideas, adding a layer of intellectualism.

top priorities

Highlights immediate and actionable concerns over aspirational goals.

FAQs

How can I use "highest things" in a sentence?

Use "highest things" to refer to the most important values, goals, or achievements in a given context. For example, "She dedicated her life to pursuing the "highest things" in art and science".

What are some alternatives to using "highest things"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "highest things" with phrases like "loftiest ideals", "greatest achievements", or "ultimate goals".

Is it correct to say "higher things" instead of "highest things"?

While "higher things" is also grammatically correct, it implies a relative comparison, suggesting things that are better or more advanced. "Highest things" indicates the absolute best or most important. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

In what context is "highest things" most appropriately used?

"Highest things" is suitable in formal writing, speeches, or discussions about philosophy, ethics, or personal aspirations. It adds a touch of sophistication and gravity to the subject matter.