the best of things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the best of things" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the most favorable or positive aspects of a situation or item. Example: "In life, we should always strive to appreciate the best of things, even in challenging times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So he was making the best of things.

The New Yorker

"You've met Dr. Boyd; he makes the best of things".

The New York Times

"We just have to make the best of things.

The New York Times - Magazine

During Beame's first year the press gave him the best of things.

The New Yorker

But he had to make the best of things as they were.

The Economist

Somehow, these ruthless strangers will have to make the best of things until the road clears.

The Guardian - Film

There was an acceptance, a willingness to make the best of things.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The reason I think Biden got the best of things is straightforward.

The New Yorker

By the next morning, the government was making the best of things.

The Guardian - Business

The owner, trying to make the best of things, had turned the yard into a miniature-golf course.

The New Yorker

When she looks down sadly at her rags, she automatically brushes away the dirt, making the best of things.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the best of things", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific aspects are being considered positive. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the impact of your message.

Common error

Avoid using "the best of things" in contexts where the positive elements are vague or unidentifiable. Always provide clear examples or details to support the claim that something is indeed the best of what's available.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the best of things" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It often acts as the object of a verb, such as 'make' or 'get,' indicating the positive aspects or elements within a given context. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, referring to the most favorable or positive aspects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the best of things" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that highlights the positive aspects of a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It functions primarily as a noun phrase and serves to encourage optimism, especially during challenging times. While primarily found in news and media, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse communication styles. To enhance your writing, clearly define the positive elements you're referencing when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Embracing the positive aspects

Focuses on highlighting and celebrating the positives.

Looking on the bright side

Focuses on maintaining a positive outlook despite difficulties.

Finding silver linings

Highlights identifying positive aspects within challenging circumstances.

Seeing the glass half full

Maintaining a positive outlook instead of dwelling on negatives.

Making lemonade out of lemons

Emphasizes turning a negative situation into a positive one.

Counting your blessings

Encourages gratitude for the positive aspects of life.

Every cloud has a silver lining

A more figurative variation of “finding silver linings”.

Turning adversity into advantage

Highlights transforming a difficult situation into a beneficial one.

The upside

Identifies the positive aspect of a negative situation.

Capitalizing on opportunities

Focuses on using available opportunities to one's advantage.

FAQs

How can I use "the best of things" in a sentence?

You can use "the best of things" to describe making the most of a situation, like in the sentence, "Despite the challenges, they tried to make "the best of things"."

What's a good alternative to saying "the best of things"?

Alternatives to "the best of things" include "looking on the bright side", "making lemonade out of lemons", or "finding silver linings", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "make the best of things" or "do the best you can"?

"Make the best of things" implies adapting to a situation and finding positives, while "do the best you can" focuses on effort. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize adaptation or effort.

What does it mean to "try to make the best of things"?

To "try to make the best of things" means to attempt to find the positive aspects of a challenging or undesirable situation and to adapt to it in a constructive way.