the earliest possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the earliest possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something occurring at or within the earliest time frame. For example: "We would like to start the project at the earliest possible date."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The earliest possible date for Aamer's release is 25 October.

The Guardian

"Jeremy that morning asked for the earliest possible exit.

The Guardian

And that has to start at the earliest possible age.

The Guardian

Find any excuse to leave at the earliest possible second.

The New Yorker

He said: "They will speak at the earliest possible opportunity".

The Guardian

At the earliest possible moment, I did four things.

The New Yorker

The ministers also called for the earliest possible halt to the fighting in Iraq.

The New York Times

"We will take Mr Cosby's deposition at the earliest possible moment.

The Guardian

The current contract expires at midnight Wednesday, the earliest possible date for a strike.

The New York Times

The spokeswoman suggested May would travel to the US at the earliest possible opportunity.

The Guardian

We must start investing in people at the earliest possible moment – right from birth.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the earliest possible", ensure that the context clearly defines what event or deadline the 'earliest' refers to. For example, "Submit your application by the earliest possible date to ensure consideration."

Common error

Avoid using "the earliest possible" without specifying a clear timeframe or event that it relates to. Ambiguity can lead to confusion; instead, provide specific dates or contextual clues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the earliest possible" functions as an adjectival modifier, specifying a time or date. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, modifying nouns like 'date', 'moment', or 'opportunity'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the earliest possible" is a frequently used adjectival phrase that conveys urgency and a desire for prompt action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and versatility across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science and Academia, this phrase effectively communicates the importance of timeliness. When using "the earliest possible", ensure clarity by specifying the related timeframe. Alternatives such as "the soonest feasible" or "the first available" can be considered for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the soonest feasible

Replaces "possible" with "feasible", emphasizing practicality.

the quickest achievable

Substitutes "earliest" with "quickest" and "possible" with "achievable", focusing on speed and attainability.

the first available

Replaces "earliest" and "possible" with "first available", highlighting immediate access.

the minimum delay

Shifts focus to minimizing delay rather than maximizing earliness.

as soon as is practicable

Replaces the entire phrase with a more formal expression conveying urgency within reason.

at the first opportunity

Focuses on seizing the first chance, rather than strictly timing.

the initial opportunity

Similar to "at the first opportunity", emphasizing the start.

the nearest date

Focuses on proximity in time rather than absolute earliness.

the foremost chance

Highlights the priority and sequence of the opportunity.

with minimal lapse

Emphasizes reducing the time gap, rather than pinpointing the earliest time.

FAQs

How can I use "the earliest possible" in a sentence?

Use "the earliest possible" to indicate a preference for something to happen as soon as it can. For instance, "We aim to complete the project by "the earliest possible" date".

What are some alternatives to "the earliest possible"?

You can use alternatives such as "the soonest feasible", "the quickest achievable", or "the first available" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "as soon as the earliest possible time"?

Yes, "as soon as the earliest possible time" is redundant. "The earliest possible" already implies the soonest available opportunity.

What's the difference between "the earliest possible" and "the latest possible"?

"The earliest possible" indicates a desire for something to occur sooner, while "the latest possible" suggests accepting something at the very last moment allowed.