best · n
make the best of sth
B2 to try to be positive about a situation you do not like but cannot change
Dictionary examples:
Our hotel room is pretty small, but we'll just have to make the best of it. (30.1)
(have) the best of both worlds
C1 to have the advantages of two different situations
Dictionary examples:
Living in the country and working in the city you have the best of both worlds. (15.1)
at best
C2 used to show that the most positive way of considering something is still not good
Dictionary examples:
If he drops the course now, at best he’ll get an incomplete, and he could fail. (61.1)
for the best
C2 If something is for the best, it seems unpleasant now, but will improve a situation in the future.
Dictionary examples:
Moving to a smaller apartment really was for the best. (17.1)
bring out the best in sb
C2 to cause someone's best qualities to show
Dictionary examples:
This chance to work with young people has really brought out the best in him. (28.5)
at the best of times
C2 used to show that something is not good when it is the best it can be
Dictionary examples:
He's not exactly patient at the best of times. (22.0)
all the best
A2 used to say that you hope someone will be happy, healthy, successful, etc., often when saying goodbye
Dictionary examples:
All the best in your challenge to stay awake in class! (0.0)
All the best in your new job as a clown! (0.0)
All the best in your fight against morning alarms! (0.0)
Well, all the best - it was nice meeting you. (13.2)
Please wish him all the best in his new job. (34.1)
at his/its, etc. best
B1 at the highest level of achievement or quality
Dictionary examples:
The teacher is at her best when students actually do their homework. (0.0)
The cat is at its best when sleeping on my keyboard during work. (0.0)
The magician was at his best when he made my homework disappear. (0.0)
The article is an example of journalism at its best. (34.9)
do/try your best
B1 to make the greatest effort possible
Dictionary examples:
I'm trying my best to understand physics, but my brain keeps saying 'nope'! (0.0)
I'm doing my best to stay awake in this boring meeting, but my eyes disagree. (0.0)
I'm doing my best to diet, but the cake keeps calling my name! (0.0)
I did my best to persuade him. (17.8)
the best
B1 someone or something that is better than any other
Dictionary examples:
My grandma claims she's the best at texting. She types with her nose! (0.0)
My dad thinks he's the best at jokes. We just laugh to be polite! (0.0)
In the chocolate eating contest, I'm always the best. My stomach is unbeatable! (0.0)
Chris and I are the best of friends. (7.6)
I like all of Hitchcock's films, but I think "Notorious" is the best. (53.5)