prime condition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prime condition" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is in excellent or optimal condition. Example: "The vintage car was in prime condition, with a glossy exterior and a perfectly tuned engine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They were both in prime condition.

The New York Times - Sports

Saws and tools are kept in prime condition and are more efficient to work with.

The Guardian

Equitable distribution of food aid should be a prime condition for such assistance.

The New York Times

Most of the coins were in prime condition and bore the Muslim date of 1702.

The New Yorker

However, making changes at Paris had been a prime condition of his taking the job.

The Guardian

Ms. Streisand is 70, and her voice is still singularly compelling, although not in prime condition.

The New York Times - Arts

At 67, his voice is in prime condition: weathered but rugged and forceful.

The New York Times - Arts

According to a National Automobile Dealers Association appraisal guide, an example in prime condition is worth about $130,000 today.

The New York Times

Most of the coins were in prime condition and bore a Muslim date whose Christian equivalent was 1702.

The New Yorker

Which of the suspended players will lose prime condition or stall as a result of the one-year lay off?

The Guardian - Sport

(The asking price on many town houses in prime condition in Harlem is $2.2 million or more these days).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the condition of an item, be specific about what aspects are in "prime condition". For example, instead of saying 'The car is in prime condition', specify 'The car's engine is in prime condition, with regular maintenance records.'

Common error

Avoid using "prime condition" as a generic descriptor. Always ensure the context clearly indicates what specific attributes are considered to be in optimal state to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prime condition" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating that the noun is in an excellent or optimal state. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where "prime condition" describes various entities, from physical objects to the state of an athlete.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prime condition" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes something in an excellent or optimal state. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what specific aspects are considered to be in their optimal state. Synonyms include "excellent shape" and "optimal state". Avoid overuse in vague contexts to maintain clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excellent shape

Emphasizes the physical or structural integrity of something.

top condition

Highlights the superior quality or state of something.

perfect order

Focuses on the flawless arrangement and functionality.

optimal state

Stresses the achievement of the most favorable or desirable condition.

tip-top shape

An informal way to emphasize something is in excellent condition.

peak fitness

Specifically denotes the highest level of physical fitness or readiness.

mint condition

Implies a new or nearly new state, often used for collectibles.

good working order

Focuses on the functional aspect of being in good condition.

sound condition

Highlights the robustness and reliability of something.

pristine state

Emphasizes the untouched and unblemished nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "prime condition" in a sentence?

You can use "prime condition" to describe something that is in excellent or optimal shape. For example, 'The athlete is in "peak fitness"' or 'The equipment was kept in "excellent shape"'.

What is a synonym for "prime condition"?

Synonyms for "prime condition" include "excellent shape", "top condition", or "optimal state", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "prime condition" or "in prime condition"?

Both phrases are correct, but "in prime condition" is more commonly used to describe something being in an excellent state. "Prime condition" can act as a noun phrase.

What's the difference between "mint condition" and "prime condition"?

"Mint condition" typically implies something is new or nearly new, like a collectible item. "Prime condition" is a broader term that means something is in its optimal or best possible state, but it doesn't necessarily mean it's new. Something in "excellent shape" might be described as being in "prime condition".