insofar as possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "insofar as possible" is correct and can be used in both spoken and written English.
It is used to indicate something that is done as much as it can be done or as far as possible. For example: We will try to complete the project as soon as possible, insofar as possible.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You try to find common ground, insofar as possible.

The New York Times

Spurred by this observation, it is necessary to select multiple independent paths insofar as possible.

Computer Networks

Insofar as possible, please bring a completed plan of study and your computer to office hours.

Harvard University

It will also treat ancient Iranian religion, insofar as possible, apart from Zoroastrianism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Critical-safety functions should be designed, tested, encapsulated, and executed independently of control operations code insofar as possible.

Mission-Critical and Safety-Critical Systems Handbook Design and Development for Embedded Applications

Each competing vessel must be designed, built, and, insofar as possible, outfitted solely in the country that it represents.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In a meeting with department employees in February, Mrs. Clinton said, "I certainly am of the mind that we should, insofar as possible, reduce our dependence".

The New York Times

Data were gathered between 1992 and 1995, using maternal questionnaires and medical record abstraction, with comparable methods in both sites insofar as possible.

European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology

Some graduate students who worked in the Department at Berkeley took their degrees in other Groups (e.g., Genetics, Microbiology. Plant Physiology); these are included insofar as possible.

University of California, Berkeley

In modern times, most botanical gardens are concerned primarily with exhibiting ornamental plants, insofar as possible in a scheme that emphasizes natural relationships.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Consequently, it is desirable to describe a distribution insofar as possible by a small number of parameters that are comparatively easy to evaluate and interpret.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "insofar as possible" to indicate that an action or condition should be maximized, acknowledging that there might be limitations or constraints. For example, "We aim to reduce our carbon footprint, insofar as possible, by adopting sustainable practices."

Common error

While "insofar as possible" is a valid phrase, overuse can make writing sound stilted. Consider simpler alternatives like "as much as possible" or "where feasible" to maintain clarity and flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "insofar as possible" functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause to indicate the degree or extent to which something is done. As Ludwig AI explains, it expresses that an action is performed or a condition is met to the greatest degree that circumstances allow.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

27%

News & Media

26%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

11%

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "insofar as possible" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase that signifies doing something to the greatest extent that circumstances permit. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it's widely used across diverse contexts, including academia, news media, and scientific writing, reflecting its versatility and utility in formal communication. While highly valuable, its formal tone suggests considering simpler alternatives in less formal settings. Remember to use "insofar as possible" to temper commitment with realism in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as much as possible

Emphasizes the quantity or degree to which something is done.

to the extent possible

Highlights the boundaries or limitations within which something can be achieved.

as far as feasible

Focuses on the practicality and achievability of a task or goal.

wherever practicable

Implies a consideration of the existing conditions and resources.

to the best of one's ability

Indicates that the action is performed with the maximum capability available to the subject.

within the realm of possibility

Emphasizes that something will be done if it's at all achievable.

as best one can

Suggests making the greatest effort, despite potential limitations.

to the degree achievable

Focuses on the level of accomplishment that can realistically be attained.

as much as is practicable

Highlights both the quantity and the practicality of something being done.

as fully as can be

Emphasizes completeness within existing constraints.

FAQs

How can I use "insofar as possible" in a sentence?

Use "insofar as possible" to express that something should be done to the greatest extent that circumstances allow. For example, "We will accommodate your requests, "as much as possible"." or "The company aims to reduce waste, "to the extent possible"".

What are some alternatives to "insofar as possible"?

Alternatives include "as much as possible", "to the extent possible", "as far as feasible", or "wherever practicable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "insofar as possible" formal or informal?

"Insofar as possible" is considered a relatively formal phrase. In more casual contexts, consider using "as much as possible".

What does "insofar as possible" mean?

"Insofar as possible" means to the extent or degree that something is achievable or feasible. It indicates that an action or goal will be pursued as fully as conditions permit.