Farthest vs. Furthest: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on September 28, 2023
Farthest refers to the greatest distance measurable, while furthest can denote the greatest distance, degree, or extent, allowing for metaphorical use.
Key Differences
Farthest and furthest are often used interchangeably but tend to have nuanced differences. "Farthest" is typically used to refer to actual, measurable distances, making it the comparative and superlative form of “far” when relating to physical distance. For instance, when comparing the distance between two physical locations, "farthest" would be the more suitable choice. In contrast, "furthest" is more versatile, as it can describe not only the greatest physical distance but also the greatest degree or extent, allowing for more abstract or metaphorical uses.
The difference between farthest and furthest can be better understood with the concept of literal and figurative meanings. "Farthest" is used when one refers to a literal, quantifiable distance, such as “the farthest planet in the solar system.” "Furthest," on the other hand, can also be used metaphorically or figuratively to mean the greatest degree or extent of something, such as “pushing an argument to its furthest limit,” which does not imply a measurable distance but rather an extent or degree of an abstract concept.
In practice, due to their synonymous usage, choosing between "farthest" and "furthest" often depends on regional language preferences and traditions. American English typically does not strictly adhere to the distinction between the two, and they are used interchangeably. However, some style guides and grammarians do suggest maintaining the distinction between "farthest" for physical distances and "furthest" for metaphorical or figurative distances, to convey meanings more precisely.
Despite the nuanced distinction between "farthest" and "furthest," both words can often be used interchangeably without causing confusion. However, keeping the subtle differences in mind can enrich language use, allowing for more nuanced and precise communication, especially in formal writing or when clarity is paramount. Recognizing "farthest" as pertaining primarily to measurable distances and "furthest" to degrees or extents, either literally or metaphorically, can elevate the precision of language expression.
Comparison Chart
Usage
Preferred for measurable, physical distances.
Can be used for both physical distances and metaphorical extents.
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Meaning
Greatest distance measurable.
Greatest distance, degree, or extent, allowing metaphorical use.
Application
More specific, mainly for literal distances.
More versatile, for both literal and figurative expressions.
Language Preference
Often preferred in American English for physical distances.
Used interchangeably with farthest in American English.
Connotation
Strictly denotes spatial distance.
Can denote advancement in degree or level, not strictly spatial.
Farthest and Furthest Definitions
Farthest
Extending to the utmost distance.
He sat at the farthest end of the table.
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Furthest
At the greatest distance, degree, or extent.
His influence reaches the furthest corners of the world.
Farthest
Most extended in space.
The arrow hit the farthest target.
Furthest
To the highest or most extreme degree.
This theory is the furthest from the truth.
Farthest
Most remote or extreme in distance.
The farthest planet from the sun is Neptune.
Furthest
Most distant or remote.
The furthest stars are yet to be explored.
Farthest
At the greatest distance from a starting point.
The mountain peak was the farthest point visible from the town.
Furthest
Most distant in degree, time, or space
That's the furthest thing from my mind. They explored the furthest reaches of space.
Farthest
Beyond all others in extent or degree.
He lives in the farthest part of the city.
Furthest
To the greatest extent or degree
Went the furthest of all the children in her education.
Farthest
Most remote or distant.
Furthest
At or to the most distant point in space or time
He swam the furthest.
Farthest
To or at the most distant or remote point.
Furthest
Most distant in time, space or degree.
The furthest known galaxy is about 13 billion light years from Earth.
Farthest
To or at the most advanced point or stage.
Furthest
To, at or over the greatest distance in space, time or other extent.
Of all the children in our school, I can run furthest.
He lives furthest from the office, so his commute is the longest.
Farthest
By the greatest extent or degree.
Furthest
To the greatest degree or extent.
This civilisation was the furthest advanced.
Farthest
Alternative form of furthest. (See also usage notes at further.)
Furthest
At the greatest distance; farthest.
Farthest
Alternative form of furthest. (See also usage notes at further.)
Furthest
(comparatives of `far') most remote in space or time or order;
Had traveled to the farthest frontier
Don't go beyond the farthermost (or furthermost) tree
Explored the furthest reaches of space
The utmost tip of the peninsula
Farthest
Most distant or remote; as, the farthest degree. See Furthest.
Furthest
To the greatest degree or extent or most advanced stage (`furthest' is used more often than `farthest' in this abstract sense);
Went the furthest of all the children in her education
Furthest removed from reality
She goes farthest in helping us
Farthest
At or to the greatest distance. See Furthest.
Furthest
To the greatest distance in space or time (`farthest' is used more often than `furthest' in this physical sense);
See who could jump the farthest
Chose the farthest seat from the door
He swam the furthest
Farthest
Most distant or remote;
Man's farthest goal
Furthest
Most extended in a metaphorical sense.
He went the furthest in his academic achievements.
Farthest
(comparatives of `far') most remote in space or time or order;
Had traveled to the farthest frontier
Don't go beyond the farthermost (or furthermost) tree
Explored the furthest reaches of space
The utmost tip of the peninsula
Furthest
Beyond all others in relation to advancement or progression.
She is the furthest in her research among her peers.
Farthest
To the greatest distance in space or time (`farthest' is used more often than `furthest' in this physical sense);
See who could jump the farthest
Chose the farthest seat from the door
He swam the furthest
Farthest
To the greatest degree or extent or most advanced stage (`furthest' is used more often than `farthest' in this abstract sense);
Went the furthest of all the children in her education
Furthest removed from reality
She goes farthest in helping us
FAQs
Which is preferred for spatial distances in formal writing?
Farthest is traditionally preferred for spatial or measurable distances in formal writing.
Can farthest and furthest be used interchangeably?
Often, they are used interchangeably, but traditionally, farthest is for physical distances, and furthest is for metaphorical extents.
Is farthest mainly used for measurable distances?
Yes, farthest is typically used to refer to actual, measurable distances.
Which term is more versatile in application?
Furthest is more versatile as it can be used for both physical distances and metaphorical extents.
Does farthest imply remoteness?
Yes, farthest can imply the most remote or extreme in distance.
Can furthest be used in a figurative sense?
Yes, furthest can be used to describe the most extended in a figurative or metaphorical sense.
Is there a difference in meaning between the farthest and the furthest?
Traditionally, farthest relates to measurable distance, while furthest relates to metaphorical distance or degree.
Is the distinction between farthest and furthest strictly observed in modern usage?
The distinction is often overlooked in modern usage, especially in American English.
Is farthest used in American English?
Yes, farthest is often preferred in American English for describing physical distances.
Can furthest be used to describe metaphorical distances?
Yes, furthest can describe the greatest degree or extent, allowing for metaphorical use.
Can furthest imply advancement in levels or degrees?
Yes, furthest can denote the highest or most extreme degree or level.
Can farthest be used to describe extents?
It is traditionally used to describe spatial extents but can be used interchangeably with furthest in many cases.
Is furthest suitable for describing progressions?
Yes, furthest is suitable for describing the most advanced point in progressions or degrees.
Is maintaining the traditional distinction between farthest and furthest important for clarity?
Maintaining the distinction can enhance clarity, especially in formal writing, but often context makes the intended meaning clear.
Which word is more abstract in meaning?
Furthest is more abstract as it can denote the greatest degree or extent in a more conceptual sense.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
