a maximum of three

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a maximum of three" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a limit or cap on a quantity, indicating that the number should not exceed three. Example: "Participants are allowed to submit a maximum of three entries for the competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A maximum of three attempts is allowed.

The New York Times

I'd given her a maximum of three years".

The Guardian

All had faced a maximum of three years in jail.

The New York Times

A maximum of three American runners can qualify for the Sydney Marathon.

The New York Times - Sports

Tickets are valid all day with a maximum of three return journeys.

The New York Times - Travel

Updated at 2.46pm BST 2.41pm BST Speakers are now limited to a maximum of three minutes.

The Guardian

He faces a maximum of three years in prison and fines.

The New York Times

Indian law limits his punishment to a maximum of three years in prison.

The Guardian

But the prize can only be split a maximum of three ways.

The Guardian

Each entrant can submit a maximum of three images for this competition.

The Guardian

A maximum of three people are able to attend from each organization.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting limits, ensure the context clearly defines what "a maximum of three" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For instance, "Each participant can submit a maximum of three entries."

Common error

Avoid assuming "a maximum of three" means there must be three. It sets an upper limit; the actual number could be one, two, or three, depending on the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a maximum of three" functions as a quantifier that specifies an upper limit or constraint on the number of items, occurrences, or amounts allowed. It modifies a noun, restricting its quantity. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

30%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a maximum of three" is a common and grammatically sound way to express an upper limit or restriction on quantity. As indicated by Ludwig, it is widely used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific publications and general instructions. Alternative phrases like "at most three" or "up to three" can be used interchangeably, but "a maximum of three" remains a clear and versatile option. When using this phrase, ensure the context is clear to avoid any misinterpretations regarding the intended upper limit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at most three

This alternative uses 'at most' to convey the upper limit, focusing on the highest permissible quantity without exceeding it.

up to three

Using 'up to' indicates that three is the highest allowable number, but fewer are also acceptable.

no more than three

This phrase directly states that the quantity cannot exceed three, emphasizing the restriction.

a limit of three

This explicitly defines three as the boundary that should not be surpassed.

three or fewer

States that the number must be either three or a value less than three.

not exceeding three

Directly states that the upper boundary is three and that values should not go beyond it.

capped at three

This uses the verb 'capped' to suggest an official or enforced upper boundary of three.

restricted to three

Focuses on the limitation, highlighting that the value cannot exceed three.

a ceiling of three

Implies an upper boundary, suggesting that the number cannot surpass three.

limited to a trio

This uses 'trio' to replace 'three', adding a stylistic variation while keeping the meaning the same.

FAQs

How do I use "a maximum of three" in a sentence?

Use "a maximum of three" to specify an upper limit. For example, "Each team can have "a maximum of three" members."

What phrases can I use instead of "a maximum of three"?

Alternatives include "at most three", "up to three", or "no more than three", depending on the desired emphasis.

Is it correct to say "a maximum of three" or "maximum three"?

"A maximum of three" is grammatically more complete and generally preferred. "Maximum three" might be understood but is less formal and less common.

What's the difference between "a maximum of three" and "at least three"?

"A maximum of three" sets an upper limit, meaning the quantity cannot exceed three. "At least three" sets a lower limit, meaning the quantity must be three or more.