greatest possible
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greatest possible
As great, comprehensive, or intensive as possible; describing the maximum that can be achieved.
Wir müssen grösstmögliche Sorgfalt walten lassen, um Fehler zu vermeiden.
We must exercise the greatest possible care in order to avoid mistakes.
The word is composed of the superlative 'grösst' (greatest, from 'groß' (big)) and the word 'möglich' (possible). So it literally means 'as great as possible' and expresses a maximum.
Wir wollen den grösstmöglichen Nutzen aus diesem Projekt ziehen.
We want to get the greatest possible benefit from this project.
This adjective is almost always used before a noun (attributive use). Using it as a standalone predicate is very rare and often sounds unnatural.
Das Ziel ist die grösstmögliche Sicherheit für alle Teilnehmer.
The goal is the greatest possible safety for all participants.
'Grösstmöglich' (greatest possible) is often combined with abstract nouns to express a maximum of quality or intensity. Typical examples are: grösstmöglicher Schutz (greatest possible protection), grösstmöglicher Erfolg (greatest possible success), or grösstmögliche Transparenz (greatest possible transparency).
Die Firma verspricht ihren Kunden den grösstmöglichen Schutz ihrer Daten.
The company promises its customers the greatest possible protection of their data.
The word belongs more to written language and is often used in formal, official, or technical contexts.
Bitte füllen Sie das Formular mit grösstmöglicher Genauigkeit aus.
Please fill out the form with the greatest possible accuracy.
maximum
'maximal' and 'grösstmöglich' are close in meaning because both refer to the upper end of what is possible. 'maximal' often sounds factual and fits well with exact limits, numbers, or rules. 'grösstmöglich' emphasizes more strongly that you are doing everything possible so that something becomes as large, strong, or comprehensive as possible. When it is about a permitted maximum limit, 'maximal' is more natural. When it is about the best possible result or the strongest effort, 'grösstmöglich' often fits better.
Beim Einpacken achte ich auf die grösstmögliche Frische der Lebensmittel.
When packing, I pay attention to keeping the food as fresh as possible.
Vor dem Termin dürfen maximal acht Personen im Raum warten.
Before the appointment, at most eight people may wait in the room.