the utmost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the utmost" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is of the highest degree, level, or amount. For example, "I want to give the utmost respect to my teacher."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Walker had the utmost confidence as well.

The New York Times - Sports

"Vision is of the utmost importance.

The New York Times

We have the utmost respect for them.

The New York Times - Sports

Protecting children requires the utmost vigilance.

The New Yorker

"Obviously, privacy is of the utmost importance.

The New York Times

With the utmost temerity I question this.

The Guardian

Cervi has the utmost respect for him".

The New York Times - Sports

I have the utmost respect for him.

The New York Times

Please proceed with the utmost care".

The New York Times

And always with the utmost conviction.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's all staged with the utmost realism.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the utmost" to emphasize the significance or importance of something, particularly in formal or serious contexts. For example: "The situation requires the utmost care."

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "the utmost" in very casual conversations can sound overly formal or unnatural. Consider simpler alternatives like "most" or "highest" in such scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the utmost" functions as a determiner followed by a noun, modifying the noun to indicate the highest degree, quantity, or level of something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is used to express that something is of the highest importance or intensity. Examples from Ludwig include phrases like "the utmost confidence" and "the utmost respect".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the utmost" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the highest degree or level of something. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific publications, and wiki articles, "the utmost" serves to highlight significance and importance. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where a degree of formality is appropriate, avoiding overuse in casual conversations. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "greatest extent" or "highest degree" to convey similar intensity. Using "the utmost" requires careful consideration of context to ensure its impactful and appropriate application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the utmost degree

This is a slight variation, re-emphasizing the high level.

the fullest extent

Similar to 'greatest extent', this highlights the completeness of action.

the greatest extent

Emphasizes the degree to which something is done or experienced.

the highest degree

Focuses on the level or intensity of something.

the maximum level

Highlights the peak or limit that something can reach.

the very most

A more informal and emphatic way to express the highest quantity or degree.

the extreme limit

Stresses the boundary or edge of something.

the full measure

Indicates the complete or total amount of something.

the peak intensity

Highlights the highest point of strength or force.

the absolute best

Focuses on achieving the highest quality or standard.

FAQs

How can I use "the utmost" in a sentence?

You can use "the utmost" to describe something of the highest degree or importance. For example, "We must proceed with "the utmost caution"" or "I have "the utmost respect" for her dedication."

What are some alternatives to using "the utmost"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "greatest extent", "highest degree", or "maximum level" as alternatives to "the utmost".

Is it ever incorrect to use "the utmost"?

While grammatically correct, using "the utmost" might sound overly formal in very casual situations. In informal contexts, consider using simpler words like "most" or "greatest".

What's the difference between "utmost" and "most"?

"Utmost" typically refers to the highest degree or level achievable, emphasizing completeness or extremity. "Most" is more general and simply indicates a quantity greater than others. Therefore, "utmost" carries a stronger connotation of finality and significance than the more common "most".