# level best

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/level-best
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The very best that one can do.

## Examples

- I am doing my level best to finish this work.
- Even though the project was difficult, she did her level best to complete it on time.
- Despite the overwhelming odds against his success, he did his level best to ensure that the final outcome met the high standards required by his superiors.

## Origin

From level, in the sense of well-balanced, even, or steady, combined with best. The compound is attested in this form from the mid-19th century.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.