running at full power

USAGE SUMMARY

"running at full power" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase in any context in which you are describing something that is performing to the fullest extent of its capability. For example: "The new engine was running at full power, giving us a smooth ride."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"People think they are, but the computer is actually running at full power".

The New York Times

We need space in the dumps, an incinerator running at full power, and greater capacity for selective recycling.

The Guardian

In interviews recently, scientists and managers said that they had been too eager to get the collider running at full power in 2008.

The New York Times - Science

The Indian Point 2 nuclear power plant in Buchanan is running at full power for the first time since it closed last February after a small radioactive leak.

The New York Times

The aim is to find a configuration of the fresh fuel assemblies and remnants in order to keep the power plant running at full power by the largest time as possible.

Progress in Nuclear Energy

In general, jet engines operate with choked nozzle during take-off, climb and cruise, whereas unchoking occurs while landing and taxiing (when engine is not running at full power).

Infrared Physics & Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Conventional microwave ovens always run at full power.

The New York Times - Tech

But plants that are fueled by uranium, coal or natural gas obviously run more hours of the year than wind machines do; wind plants generally produce only 30 to 40 percent as much electricity as they would if they could run at full power all year long.

The New York Times

The car has barely run, McLaren have done no performance work and, as far as we know, the Honda engine has never been run at full power.

BBC

In the 'cycle charging' strategy, the generator (if present) runs at full power and excess electricity is used for charging the batteries.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

We are a liquid battery and heat comes out in the liquid, so we can run at full power without cooling and with no degradation and lifetime impact.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to determine if a more specific alternative, such as "operating at maximum capacity" or "functioning at peak performance", might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "running at full power" to describe situations that require nuanced power levels or aren't about maximizing output. For example, it's inaccurate to say "The oven is running at full power" when you're baking a delicate cake that requires a lower temperature.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running at full power" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing the manner in which something is operating. It specifies the intensity or degree of operation. Ludwig AI confirms the usability of the phrase in describing systems performing to the fullest extent of their capability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "running at full power" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes a system or entity operating at its maximum capacity or potential. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for diverse contexts. While the phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings, it maintains a generally neutral register. When writing, remember that there may be more specific alternatives such as "operating at maximum capacity" or "functioning at peak performance" which are more precise. While this phrase is commonly used, it can sometimes be an overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operating at maximum capacity

Focuses on the capacity aspect, emphasizing that the system or entity is using all available resources.

functioning at peak performance

Highlights the performance aspect, suggesting the system is working at its best possible level.

working at full potential

Emphasizes the realization of potential capabilities, implying that the entity is achieving everything it is capable of.

performing at full strength

Highlights the strength and capability being exerted, suitable when physical power or ability is involved.

going full throttle

An idiomatic expression indicating maximum speed or effort, often used in informal contexts.

at peak output

Focuses specifically on the output aspect, highlighting that the system is producing the maximum possible result.

at full capacity

Similar to 'operating at maximum capacity', this denotes maximal volume or load.

fully operational

Indicates a state of complete readiness and functionality, though not necessarily maximum power.

flat out

An informal way of saying that something is being done as fast or as hard as possible.

in full swing

Suggests that an activity or process is well underway and progressing vigorously.

FAQs

How can I use "running at full power" in a sentence?

You can use "running at full power" to describe anything operating at its maximum capacity or capability. For example, "The factory is "operating at maximum capacity"" or "The engine was "performing at full strength"".

What's a more formal alternative to "running at full power"?

For formal contexts, consider phrases like ""operating at maximum capacity"" or "functioning at peak performance", which convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

Is "running at full capacity" the same as "running at full power"?

While similar, "running at full capacity" emphasizes the volume or load being handled, while "running at full power" emphasizes the energy or force being exerted. The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "running at full power"?

Avoid using "running at full power" when describing systems needing controlled output, or requiring less than maximal use, or when alternative terms are more appropriate, such as when only focusing on speed with the idiom "going full throttle".