running at full capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "running at full capacity" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where something is functioning at its maximum capability or efficiency. Example: "Our factory is currently running at full capacity to meet the high demand for our products."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We had three shifts, were running at full capacity.

The New York Times

GM Europe's president, Richard Donnelly, says his factories are all now running at full capacity.

The Economist

But in terms of running at full capacity, we should be back by then".

The New York Times

By the end of the summer, the system was running at full capacity.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Didcot station was running at full capacity on Sunday evening, RWE told me.

The Guardian

The sale is contingent on the plants' running at full capacity, without any major problems.

The New York Times

The HSE said last night that Swanwick was not running at full capacity.

The Guardian

Two reactors outside Houston are running at full capacity and suffered no serious damage.

The New York Times

Today, for the first time in 15 years, Master Lock's unionized plant in Milwaukee is running at full capacity.

The New York Times

At the same time, financial burdens can prevent the economy from running at full capacity—so called "financial headwinds".

The Economist

But that deal, officials noted, is contingent on the plant's running at full capacity without major problems.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "running at full capacity" to clearly indicate that a system, factory, or organization is operating at its maximum possible level. This is particularly useful when reporting on production levels, resource utilization, or economic performance. For better clarity, consider quantifying the capacity, such as "The factory is running at full capacity, producing 1,000 units per day".

Common error

While "running at full capacity" is a clear indicator of peak operation, avoid using it without providing context. Instead of simply stating that something is "running at full capacity", explain what that capacity entails. For example, clarify what metrics define "full capacity" (e.g., production volume, patient throughput) to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running at full capacity" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing the state of operation. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates that something is operating at its maximum possible level, either in terms of output, efficiency, or utilization of resources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Formal & Business

27%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "running at full capacity" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe a state of maximized operational capability. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and widespread application. Predominantly found in news and media, formal business settings, and academic discussions, the phrase clearly and effectively conveys the idea that a system or entity is operating at its maximum possible level. To enhance clarity, it's advisable to provide specific context on what constitutes "full capacity" in each instance. Alternatives like "operating at maximum output" or "functioning at peak performance" offer similar meanings but may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operating at maximum output

Focuses on the output aspect, emphasizing the highest level of production achieved.

functioning at peak performance

Highlights the performance aspect, suggesting optimal efficiency and effectiveness.

working at full potential

Emphasizes the realization of complete capability, implying a state of maximized ability.

fully operational

Indicates a state where all functions are active and available for use without specifying if at maximum

performing at its best

Highlights the superior state of execution, indicating the highest level of performance.

at maximum throughput

Focuses on the rate of processing, indicating the highest volume of output in a given time.

completely utilized

Emphasizes that all available resources are being used, indicating no idle capacity.

at full stretch

Implies that resources are being used to their limit, indicating a state of intense operation.

flat out

Informal way of saying something is done with maximum effort and speed.

maxed out

Suggests reaching the upper limit of a system's or resource's capacity.

FAQs

What does it mean for a system to be "running at full capacity"?

When a system is "running at full capacity", it means it's operating at its maximum possible output or efficiency. This could refer to a factory producing goods, a hospital treating patients, or a network handling data at its peak level. It indicates optimal use of available resources.

Which is more appropriate, "running at full capacity" or "operating at maximum output"?

Both "running at full capacity" and "operating at maximum output" are appropriate, but they emphasize different aspects. The former focuses on the system's general operational state, while the latter emphasizes the level of production achieved. The choice depends on which aspect you want to highlight.

What are some alternatives to "running at full capacity" in a formal business context?

In a formal business context, you can use alternatives like "functioning at peak performance", "fully operational", or "at maximum throughput" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

How can I make my writing clearer when using the phrase "running at full capacity"?

To improve clarity, provide specific details about what constitutes "full capacity" in your context. For example, instead of saying "The hospital is running at full capacity", specify "The hospital is running at full capacity, with all beds occupied and emergency rooms operating at maximum patient intake".