utmost reserve

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utmost reserve" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of extreme caution or discretion, often in the context of handling sensitive information or situations. Example: "In matters of national security, the officials maintained the utmost reserve to protect classified information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"The case is being handled with utmost reserve," Father Lombardi said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In a mitigation ahead of sentencing on Friday, he pleaded with Mr Justice Saunders not to impose the maximum two-year prison term, on Coulson saying this was reserved for the "cases of utmost gravity".

The Guardian

The inversion of important petrophysical parameters such as shale volume (V sh), water saturation (S w ), and porosity is of utmost importance mainly for three objectives: static geological model building, volumetric reserve estimation, and overall field development planning.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Keeping his ships together, Cornwallis ordered Bellerophon to take up position at the head of his line, later explaining that "The Bellerophon I was glad to keep in some measure as a reserve, having reason at first to suppose there would be full occasion for the utmost exertions of us all .

Wikipedia

Fifa expressed "utmost sympathy".

The Guardian - Sport

It maintains utmost discretion.

The New York Times

Of utmost importance.

Harvard University

With utmost respect.

Princeton University

Of utmost importance was fire.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Obama administration and the U.S. Federal Reserve along with counterparts around the world are doing their utmost to thaw the credit freeze that took hold in the fall of 2008.

Harvard Business Review

Harrist was doing his utmost.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "utmost reserve", ensure the context involves handling sensitive or confidential information where discretion is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "utmost reserve" when describing general politeness or simple disagreement. It's most effective when applied to situations demanding significant discretion, like legal proceedings or matters of national security.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utmost reserve" functions as a noun phrase, where "utmost" modifies "reserve". It describes a state of extreme caution or discretion. As Ludwig shows, this phrase is often associated with handling sensitive situations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utmost reserve" is a phrase used to describe extreme caution and discretion. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and, though rare, it appears in various contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure the situation warrants a high degree of confidentiality and sensitivity. Alternatives include "extreme discretion" or "maximum confidentiality".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extreme discretion

Emphasizes the quality of being discreet to the highest degree, focusing on avoiding causing offense or revealing private information.

maximum confidentiality

Highlights the importance of keeping information private and secure.

complete secrecy

Stresses the total absence of disclosure or publicity.

absolute discretion

Indicates that judgment and caution are exercised without any limitation.

strict confidentiality

Highlights the importance of maintaining privacy and trust.

highest level of secrecy

Focuses on the degree of concealment involved.

greatest prudence

Emphasizes wisdom and carefulness in decision-making and action.

extreme caution

Stresses the need to be very careful and alert to potential dangers or problems.

utmost care

Focuses on the attentiveness and thoroughness applied to a task or situation.

circumspection

Highlights a cautious and carefully considered approach, especially to avoid embarrassment or offense.

FAQs

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

Use "utmost reserve" to describe situations where extreme discretion and caution are necessary, such as "The investigation was handled with the utmost reserve to protect the witnesses".

What does "utmost reserve" mean?

"Utmost reserve" refers to a state of extreme caution and discretion, typically in handling sensitive or confidential matters. It implies a high degree of restraint and a deliberate avoidance of disclosure.

What are some alternatives to "utmost reserve"?

You can use alternatives like "extreme discretion", "maximum confidentiality", or "complete secrecy" depending on the context.

Is "utmost reserve" formal or informal?

"Utmost reserve" is generally considered a formal expression, best suited for professional, academic, or news-related contexts.