Meaning & use
greatest extent possible
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phraseformal
As much as is possible or practical in a situation; to the highest degree that can be achieved.
Grammar: It usually follows 'to the' or a verb like 'ensure' or 'achieve', and it describes a limit or effort, not a physical size.
Patterns
- to the greatest extent possible
- ensure something to the greatest extent possible
- protect something to the greatest extent possible
The new rules aim to protect personal data to the greatest extent possible.
We will reduce delays to the greatest extent possible while keeping the service safe.
The report recommends that the city preserve green space to the greatest extent possible.
Common combinations
- to the greatest extent possible
- The charity tries to help families to the greatest extent possible.
- ensure something to the greatest extent possible
- The team will ensure accuracy to the greatest extent possible.
- minimize something to the greatest extent possible
- We want to minimize waste to the greatest extent possible.
Synonyms and how they differ
- as far as possible
- More everyday and less formal; it fits general conversation better than official documents.
- to the maximum extent
- Very close in meaning but more technical and usually used in legal or policy texts.
Opposites
Commonly confused: greatest extent possible or to the fullest extent?
greatest extent possible vs to the fullest extent
This means completely or fully, often with no practical limit, while 'to the greatest extent possible' accepts that some limits may remain.
Practice
Complete the sentence: "The agency will protect the coastline ___ the greatest extent possible."
Choose one answer.
The fixed phrase is 'to the greatest extent possible', so 'to' is required. 'For', 'by', and 'with' do not form this established expression and change the meaning.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “greatest extent possible”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.