What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
utmost
Example
I will do my utmost to finish this project on time. [utmost: adjective]
Example
The safety of our employees is of the utmost importance. [utmost: noun]
highest
Example
Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world. [highest: adjective]
Example
She achieved the highest score in the class. [highest: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Highest is more commonly used than utmost in everyday language. Highest is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while utmost is less common and more formal in tone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between utmost and highest?
Utmost is more formal than highest and is often used in professional or academic contexts. Highest is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.