to the utmost

USAGE SUMMARY

"to the utmost" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
"To the utmost" means to the fullest extent, so it's often used in phrases like "pursue to the utmost" or "serve to the utmost." For example, "I am determined to pursue the new project to the utmost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We are free to indulge ourselves to the utmost degree.

The Guardian - Tech

All political parties should be subject to the utmost scrutiny.

The Guardian - Opinion

This scene seems slowed down to the utmost.

Independent

But then the diviner takes them on another journey that tests them to the utmost.

The New York Times

These skills will be tested to the utmost in his new job.

The Guardian - Opinion

The aim was to reduce the risks to the utmost possible extent".

The Guardian

Director Daniel Kramer has dared, enthrallingly, to explore this evil banality to the utmost.

The Guardian - Music

But that doesn't stop me from preserving to the utmost of my harvest.

The New York Times

In a statement last week, Ross said he "respects women to the utmost".

The Guardian - Music

"Don't we have a duty to use our talents to the utmost?

The New York Times - Books

So the slow erosion of his advantage tested his nerve and resolve to the utmost.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to the utmost" when you want to emphasize that something is being done to the fullest possible extent, highlighting thoroughness and dedication.

Common error

While versatile, "to the utmost" can sound overly formal in very casual contexts. Opt for alternatives like "to the max" or "as much as possible" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to the utmost" primarily functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the extent or degree to which an action or quality is performed or expressed. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to the utmost" is a versatile phrase used to express the highest degree or extent of an action or quality. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in neutral to formal contexts like news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While alternatives like "to the fullest extent" or "as much as possible" exist, "to the utmost" provides a strong emphasis on thoroughness and dedication. Keep in mind its formality when choosing it for casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the fullest extent

This alternative emphasizes the completeness of the action or quality.

to the greatest degree

Focuses on the magnitude or intensity of the action.

to the highest degree

Similar to 'greatest degree' but implies a ranking or scale.

to the maximum

A more concise way to express reaching the limit.

to the limit

Implies reaching a boundary or restriction.

as much as possible

Indicates an effort to maximize something within constraints.

to the best of one's ability

Focuses on the effort made rather than the absolute extent.

with all one's might

Highlights the strength and force applied.

to the nth degree

Emphasizes the extreme or ultimate level.

to the max

A more informal way of saying to the maximum.

FAQs

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

Use "to the utmost" to indicate doing something to the fullest extent or degree. For example, "We must defend our freedom "to the utmost"".

What are some alternatives to "to the utmost"?

Alternatives include "to the fullest extent", "to the greatest degree", or "as much as possible", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "to the utmost" formal or informal?

"To the utmost" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, you might prefer alternatives like "to the max" or "as much as possible".

What does "to the utmost" mean?

"To the utmost" means to the highest degree or extent; to the greatest possible limit. It emphasizes completeness and thoroughness in an action or quality.