working to the fullest

USAGE SUMMARY

"working to the fullest" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is giving their best effort to accomplish a task. For example, "John was working to the fullest in order to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I don't think James is just about art, at least not when he's working to the full extent of his vision," Guest says.

The New York Times

These numbers are important because they contextualize and complement findings that show that patients benefit when nurses are leading and working to the full scope of their education.

Huffington Post

The audit noted that nearly half of the assistants were not working to the full scope of their role at the time of audit.

BMC Health Services Research

Auditors noted that almost half of the incumbents (46%, 19 positions) were not working to the full scope of their position, despite having been in the trial positions for an average of over 6 months.

BMC Health Services Research

A goal should be to allow all members of the health care team to work to the full extent of their expertise, something that is not currently the norm.

The New York Times

"We face three very tough matches and we must work to the full each week to be able to go into them in the best shape," said 30-year-old Leguizamon, who now plays for French side Lyon.

BBC

The findings in our study suggest that the auxiliaries at times did not work to the full of their scope.

BMC Health Services Research

But police say they are still working to establish the full facts of the attack.

BBC

Scientists are still working to understand the full consequences of that discovery, and others made about the fossilised skeleton.

Independent

And yet, there are places that baseball is not working to give the full visibility it could.

Forbes

In a statement, Theresa May said: "We are working to establish the full details.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "working to the fullest", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being maximized—effort, potential, or resources. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "working to the fullest" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise and technical language is preferred. Alternatives like "maximizing efficiency" or "optimizing performance" might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working to the fullest" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the intensity or extent of effort applied to a task. It indicates a commitment to maximizing one's capabilities or resources.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "working to the fullest" is grammatically correct and aims to convey maximum effort or utilization. However, according to Ludwig, its frequency is low, indicating it's not commonly used in contemporary writing. Alternatives such as "working at full capacity" or "giving it your all" may offer more common and contextually appropriate substitutions. The phrase is generally neutral in register but should be used judiciously in highly formal settings where more precise language is preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

working at full capacity

Focuses on maximizing output or production.

giving it your all

Emphasizes complete dedication and effort.

exerting maximum effort

Highlights the intensity of the work being done.

performing to the best of your ability

Stresses the quality of the performance based on one's capabilities.

maximizing potential

Highlights the exploitation of maximum possible opportunities and possibilities.

going the extra mile

Implies exceeding expectations and doing more than is required.

putting in 110 percent

Expresses giving more than what seems possible.

operating at peak performance

Emphasizes efficiency and optimal functioning.

realizing full potential

Focuses on achieving the highest possible level of development or achievement.

using resources to their maximum

Underlines effective and efficient resource allocation and utilization.

FAQs

How can I use "working to the fullest" in a sentence?

You can use "working to the fullest" to describe someone who is giving their best effort in order to accomplish a task. For example: "John was "working to the fullest" in order to complete the project on time."

What can I say instead of "working to the fullest"?

You can use alternatives like "working at full capacity", "giving it your all", or "exerting maximum effort" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "working to the fullest" or "working at full capacity"?

Both "working to the fullest" and "working at full capacity" are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Working to the fullest" emphasizes effort and dedication, while "working at full capacity" focuses on maximizing output and production.

What's the difference between "working to the fullest" and "realizing full potential"?

"Working to the fullest" suggests an active effort, while "realizing full potential" indicates achieving the highest level of development. "Working to the fullest" is about action, and "realizing full potential" is about outcome.