möglichst
as ... as possible
To the greatest extent or degree possible. It often comes before an adjective, an adverb, or an expression of quantity.
EXAMPLE
Bitte komm möglichst schnell nach Hause.
Please come home as quickly as possible.
möglichst
as ... as possible / preferably
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Meanings
möglichst
preferably
If possible; where possible. It expresses that something is desired or preferred.
EXAMPLE
Bitte bezahlen Sie möglichst mit Karte.
Please pay by card if possible.
Usage tips
Word order
'Möglichst' (as ... as possible / preferably) usually comes directly before the word or phrase it modifies: an adjective, an adverb, or an expression of quantity. It remains unchanged.
EXAMPLE
Wir brauchen möglichst genaue Informationen.
We need information that is as accurate as possible.
Bitte packen Sie möglichst wenig Gepäck ein.
Please pack as little luggage as possible.
Typical collocations
For the meaning of the greatest possible degree, phrases such as 'möglichst schnell' (as quickly as possible), 'möglichst früh' (as early as possible), 'möglichst genau' (as accurately as possible), and 'möglichst wenig' (as little as possible) are especially common.
EXAMPLE
Bitte füllen Sie das Formular möglichst genau aus.
Please fill out the form as accurately as possible.
Preferred option
When 'möglichst' (preferably / if possible) comes before a prepositional phrase, it often indicates a desired or preferred option. Common patterns include 'möglichst mit' (preferably with) and 'möglichst ohne' (preferably without).
EXAMPLE
Die Reise sollte möglichst ohne Umsteigen stattfinden.
The journey should preferably take place without changing trains.
In real life
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