Upmost vs. Utmost
The English language is full of quirky words, and as we hear others use them, we also attempt to add these words to our language. However, this is when we can cause ourselves embarrassment because we don't fully understand the words that we have heard, and we use them incorrectly. This happens to people often when they attempt to use upmost and utmost.
Upmost is really an archaic adjective that is very seldom used (correctly) today. It refers to something that is at the top, the highest point, or the most "upward" spot.
1. The cat kept climbing until she reached the upmost branch of the tree-and then she couldn't get down.
2. The little girl's father frowned at her when she pointed at the upmost doll on the shelf.
3. Do you see the eagle perched on the upmost branch of that tree?
Utmost is also an adjective, and it refers to the highest degree or the most extreme.
1. The little boy was trying his utmost to annoy his older sister.
2. Have you done your utmost to train for the championship race?
3. I have the utmost respect for our principal because he handles all situations fairly, regardless of which students are involved.
In summary, upmost refers to physical position, while utmost refers to degree-of an emotion or action (not physical location). So, as you communicate with others through writing and speaking, do you utmost to use these words correctly.
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