Definition

Adverb - To the greatest extent or degree that is feasible; to the utmost practicable limit. This phrase indicates maximizing effort, quantity, or degree within the constraints of what can be done.

Usage

This adverbial phrase is used to modify verbs, describing the extent of an action. It emphasizes doing something to the greatest achievable degree. - It typically follows the verb or action it describes. - It is often used to express a strong effort or intention within realistic limits.

Examples

• Modifying a verb phrase:
  • We need to reduce waste as much as possible. (We need to minimize waste to the greatest feasible extent.)
  • Please save your work as much as possible before the system update. (Please save your work to the maximum practicable degree.)
  • He tried to help as much as possible given his busy schedule. (He tried to help to the fullest extent his schedule allowed.)

Advanced Usage

• "As much as humanly possible": An intensified form emphasizing effort within human capability.
  • The doctors did as much as humanly possible to save the patient.
• "As much as is possible": A slightly more formal variant with the same meaning.
  • We will accommodate your request as much as is possible within the regulations.

Variants and Related Words

• As far as possible: A closely related phrase often used interchangeably, though it can sometimes imply a spatial or conceptual limit rather than a quantitative one.
  • We will follow the instructions as far as possible.
• To the greatest extent possible: A more formal synonym.
• To the maximum extent feasible: A formal, often legal or technical, synonym.

Synonyms

• To the fullest extent
• As far as one can
• To the limit
• To the utmost

Related Phrases

• As soon as possible: As quickly as one can (referring to time, not quantity/degree).
• As many as possible: Used for countable nouns (referring to number, not amount).

Adverb

1. to a feasible extent
   • she helped him as much as possible