Utmost vs. Upmost — Which is Correct Spelling?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 21, 2024
"Utmost" is the correct spelling, indicating the greatest extent or degree, whereas "upmost" is considered an incorrect variant. Achieving accuracy in language usage enhances clear communication.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Utmost or Upmost
How to spell Utmost?
Utmost
Correct Spelling
Upmost
Incorrect Spelling
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Key Differences
Remember that “utmost” is the traditionally correct term used in formal English.
“Ut” in "utmost" sounds like “ut” in “but” which might be a common word for remembrance.
“Utmost” can be remembered by thinking of "ut" as in "ultimate" which also indicates extremeness or being ultimate.
“Upmost” sounds like "up" and "most" combined, and could be mistaken due to the pronunciation similarity with “utmost.”
Using “utmost” in reading and writing regularly will reinforce memory of the correct spelling.
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How Do You Spell Upmost Correctly?
Incorrect: She tried her upmost to win the competition.
Correct: She tried her utmost to win the competition.
Incorrect: It requires the upmost concentration to solve such a complex problem.
Correct: It requires the utmost concentration to solve such a complex problem.
Incorrect: Your satisfaction is our upmost priority.
Correct: Your satisfaction is our utmost priority.
Incorrect: The upmost quality of our products is guaranteed.
Correct: The utmost quality of our products is guaranteed.
Incorrect: He put in his upmost effort to complete the project on time.
Correct: He put in his utmost effort to complete the project on time.
Utmost Definitions
Of the greatest possible degree or amount
She has the utmost respect for her teacher.
The furthest or highest degree
The news was of utmost importance.
Reflecting the greatest degree
The project is of utmost significance to the team.
Most extreme; greatest
He tried to save the situation with utmost caution.
Being at the furthest point or extremity
They explored the utmost reaches of space.
Being or situated at the most distant limit or point; farthest
The utmost tip of the peninsula.
Of the highest or greatest degree, amount, or intensity; most extreme
A matter of the utmost importance.
The greatest possible amount, degree, or extent; the maximum
Worked every day to the utmost of her abilities.
Situated at the most distant limit; farthest, outermost.
The utmost limits of the land
The utmost extent of human knowledge
The most extreme; greatest, ultimate.
The utmost assiduity
The utmost harmony
The utmost misery or happiness
The greatest possible capability, extent, or quantity; maximum.
At the utmost
To the utmost
Situated at the farthest point or extremity; farthest out; most distant; extreme; as, the utmost limits of the land; the utmost extent of human knowledge.
We coasted within two leagues of Antibes, which is the utmost town in France.
Betwixt two thieves I spend my utmost breath.
Being in the greatest or highest degree, quantity, number, or the like; greatest; as, the utmost assiduity; the utmost harmony; the utmost misery or happiness.
He shall answer . . . to his utmost peril.
Six or seven thousand is their utmost power.
The most that can be; the farthest limit; the greatest power, degree, or effort; as, he has done his utmost; try your utmost.
We have tried the utmost of our friends.
The greatest possible degree;
He tried his utmost
Of the greatest possible degree or extent or intensity;
Extreme cold
Extreme caution
Extreme pleasure
Utmost contempt
To the utmost degree
In the uttermost distress
Highest in extent or degree;
To the last measure of human endurance
Whether they were accomplices in the last degree or a lesser one was...to be determined individually
(comparatives of `far') most remote in space or time or order;
Had traveled to the farthest frontier
Don't go beyond the farthermost (or furthermost) tree
Explored the furthest reaches of space
The utmost tip of the peninsula
Utmost Meaning in a Sentence
We must treat this matter with the utmost seriousness.
Your privacy is of utmost importance to us.
She showed the utmost respect to her elders.
She was filled with the utmost joy.
He tackled the challenge with utmost determination.
They provided the utmost care for the injured animal.
The utmost effort was made to ensure everyone's safety.
The team worked with the utmost precision.
She held the utmost authority in the company.
It's a situation that demands our utmost attention.
The library was kept in the utmost order.
It's of utmost importance that we act now.
The utmost silence was observed during the ceremony.
The utmost respect should be shown at all times.
They made the utmost sacrifice for their country.
Her performance was of the utmost brilliance.
The artifact was handled with the utmost care.
They showed the utmost patience during the delay.
The matter requires your utmost discretion.
This is a task of the utmost complexity.
The security of our clients is our utmost priority.
His work is of the utmost quality.
They approached the task with the utmost professionalism.
He expressed his utmost gratitude to everyone who helped.
You have my utmost sympathy during this difficult time.
Utmost Idioms & Phrases
Of the utmost importance
Being of critical significance.
It's of the utmost importance that we meet the deadline.
Utmost effort
The greatest amount of effort one can give.
He put in his utmost effort to finish the marathon.
Utmost care
Very careful consideration or attention.
The manuscript was handled with utmost care to prevent damage.
Utmost priority
The most important consideration.
Our customers' satisfaction is our utmost priority.
To the utmost degree
To the greatest extent possible.
The athlete trained to the utmost degree to prepare for the competition.
At your utmost convenience
As soon as it is very convenient for you.
Please call me back at your utmost convenience.
Utmost sincerity
Very genuine and honest.
He apologized with utmost sincerity.
Utmost concern
A matter of significant worry or interest.
The safety of the children is our utmost concern.
Utmost respect
The highest form of respect.
She commands the utmost respect from her peers.
To do one's utmost
To try as hard as possible.
I'll do my utmost to ensure the project's success.
Utmost precision
Extremely accurate and exact.
The device must be manufactured with utmost precision.
Utmost quality
The highest standard of quality.
We guarantee the utmost quality in all our products.
Utmost confidentiality
The highest level of privacy and secrecy.
All discussions are held with utmost confidentiality.
Utmost discretion
Extremely cautious about keeping something confidential.
The matter will be handled with utmost discretion.
To the utmost extent
To the maximum possible degree.
We support your decision to the utmost extent.
Utmost seriousness
With extreme seriousness and no levity.
The issue should be addressed with utmost seriousness.
Utmost attention
Focused and careful consideration.
The lecture demands your utmost attention.
With the utmost ease
Done very easily and without difficulty.
He won the match with the utmost ease.
Of utmost concern
Something that is very worrying or important.
The rising pollution levels are of utmost concern.
Common Curiosities
Why is it called utmost?
Derived from the Old English "ūtmest," meaning furthest out, which translates to the greatest extent.
What is the root word of utmost?
The root word is "ūtmest" from Old English.
What is the verb form of utmost?
There is no verb form; "utmost" is an adjective or noun.
Which vowel is used before utmost?
No specific vowel is used before “utmost”; usage depends on context.
What is the plural form of utmost?
It does not have a plural form.
What is the pronunciation of utmost?
/ˈʌtmoʊst/
Which conjunction is used with utmost?
No specific conjunction is exclusively used.
Which article is used with utmost?
Both "the" and "an" can be used depending on context.
Is utmost a noun or adjective?
It can be used as both a noun and an adjective.
Which preposition is used with utmost?
"Of" as in "of utmost importance."
What is the singular form of utmost?
"Utmost" (same as it does not have a plural form).
Is utmost an adverb?
No.
How do we divide utmost into syllables?
ut-most.
What is a stressed syllable in utmost?
The first syllable, "ut."
What is the opposite of utmost?
Least, minimal.
Is utmost an abstract noun?
When used as a noun, it can be considered abstract.
Is the word “utmost” a Direct object or an Indirect object?
It can be used as a direct object depending on context.
Which determiner is used with utmost?
"The" is commonly used.
Is the utmost term a metaphor?
No.
Is the word utmost is Gerund?
No.
Is utmost a negative or positive word?
Neutral, although context might infer positive or negative connotations.
Is utmost a vowel or consonant?
It is a word, containing both vowels and consonants.
What is another term for utmost?
Paramount, supreme, maximum.
Is utmost a countable noun?
No.
Is utmost a collective noun?
No.
Is the word utmost is imperative?
No.
How many syllables are in utmost?
Two.
What part of speech is utmost?
Adjective or noun.
How is utmost used in a sentence?
"She performed her duties with the utmost care."
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.