is at full stretch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is at full stretch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is being used to its maximum capacity or limit, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The team is at full stretch to meet the project deadline, working late hours to ensure everything is completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It is only when he is fighting that his vitality is at full stretch".

The New York Times - Books

In painting this character, Trollope's satirical fury is at full stretch.

The Guardian - Books

The aid operation in Darfur, say those working there, is at full stretch and overly dependent on the Sudanese authorities.Darfur's conflict began as an environmental catastrophe.

The Economist

But the army is at full stretch, needs reinforcements and, above all, needs to explain Colombia's war better to the voters.

The Economist

Bird's past sleight-of-hand with outlandish story concepts is at full stretch in this awkward mish-mash of Wizard of Oz escapism, ironic vintage stylings and doomy Interstellar-esque prognostications; so it's no surprise that the trailers for the film, which trip over themselves trying to define "Tomorrowland" and why we should care, don't do any better.

The Guardian - Film

The trust running mental health services in Sussex has said it is at "full stretch" as it seeks to meet increased demand and balance the books.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The western sky was going red and our shadows were at full stretch.

The New York Times - Magazine

And I was at full stretch and I didn't get to it.

The Guardian - Sport

As Ahmad worked toward an extradition, her diplomatic skills were at full stretch.

The New Yorker

There was one moment where he was at full stretch, diving like a goalkeeper, to cling on to a James O'Connor kick, that summed up his performance.

Independent

Green was at full stretch moments later to impressively prevent the Icelander's free-kick, round the blind-side of the wall, going in.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is at full stretch" to convey that a system, resource, or individual is operating at its maximum capacity or capability. It is suitable when describing situations where limits are being tested or fully utilized.

Common error

Avoid using "is at full stretch" in contexts where the subject is intended to be relaxing or at rest. This phrase implies strain and maximum exertion, which contradicts the idea of relaxation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is at full stretch" functions as a descriptive expression, often used to indicate that a resource, system, or individual is operating at its maximum capacity or limit. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is at full stretch" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe situations where something is operating at its maximum capacity or limit. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its appropriateness across different contexts, particularly in news and media. While it's a versatile phrase, it's important to use it accurately to convey the intended meaning of maximum exertion or capacity. Alternatives like "is stretched to the limit" or "is working flat out" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding common errors and best practices will further refine your usage of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is stretched to the limit

Emphasizes being pushed to the absolute maximum, implying potential breaking point.

is working flat out

Focuses on the intensity of work and effort being exerted.

is operating at maximum capacity

Highlights the utilization of resources or capabilities to the fullest extent.

is under immense strain

Emphasizes the pressure and stress experienced due to high demand.

is pushed to the max

An informal way of saying something is at its limit.

is extended to the fullest

Focuses on the degree to which something is expanded or utilized.

is taxed to the utmost

Highlights the burden and demand placed on a resource or system.

is maxed out

A colloquial term indicating complete saturation or utilization.

is at peak exertion

Emphasizes the maximum level of effort or activity being expended.

is performing at its peak

Highlights optimal performance and capability.

FAQs

How can I use "is at full stretch" in a sentence?

You can use "is at full stretch" to describe situations where resources, people, or systems are operating at their maximum capacity. For example: "The hospital staff "is at full stretch" during flu season".

What are some alternatives to "is at full stretch"?

Alternatives include "is stretched to the limit", "is working flat out", or "is operating at maximum capacity", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "is at full stretch" in formal writing?

Yes, "is at full stretch" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news, business, or academic contexts, as it clearly conveys a state of maximum exertion or capacity.

What's the difference between "is at full stretch" and "is fully extended"?

While both phrases suggest a limit, "is at full stretch" often implies a sense of strain or pressure, whereas "is fully extended" simply means that something has reached its maximum extent or capacity without necessarily implying stress.