maximum

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "maximum" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a highest or greatest possible amount or degree, as in: "The maximum number of people allowed in the meeting is 10."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Travel

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because that's the maximum capacity of the Olympic stadium.

The Guardian - Opinion

Welcome to Uzbekistan, a country bigger than Germany, with a population of 31 million, where Islam Karimov is now embarking on a fourth term of office, even though the constitution stipulates a two-term maximum for heads of state.

The Guardian

He said that the government was committed to securing the maximum number of convictions in terrorism and serious crime cases: "The experience of other countries is that the use of evidence gathered through interception may help to achieve that.

The Guardian

It could only be used in dealing with commonwealth terrorism offences with a maximum penalty of at least seven years in jail.

The Guardian

The government wanted to cap the amount at a maximum of 16 weeks, equal to four years of service.

The Guardian

This is an excellent idea, though you will need to reduce it well for maximum flavour – make it while the joints are marinating, so it is ready to use the next day.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The bill limits the fine to no more than "half the amount of the maximum fine for the offence".

The Guardian - Opinion

The new $750 supplement attached to the maximum rate of FTB Part A for single parents of children aged 6-12 intendedded to ameliorate this, but the yearly loss is in the thousands.

The Guardian - Opinion

The maximum amount that can be put into the Isa and boosted is £12,000, with the government's payment topping this up to £15,000.

The Guardian - Money

Buck faced a maximum of two years in prison and a £5,000 fine for being drunk on an aircraft.

The Guardian

Energy companies appearing before the energy and climate change select committee on Tuesday insisted the rises in bills were partly down to green taxes, but stood accused of charging customers "the maximum price they feel they can get away with".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for precision, pair "maximum" with units of measurement or quantifiable nouns to denote specific upper limits. For example, "maximum speed of 60 mph" or "maximum capacity of 500 people".

Common error

Avoid using "maximum" when "optimum" is more appropriate. "Maximum" indicates the greatest possible quantity or degree, while "optimum" refers to the most favorable conditions for a specific outcome. For example, don't say "set the oven to the maximum temperature for the cake"; instead, say "set the oven to the optimum temperature for the cake."

Linguistic Context

The word "maximum" functions primarily as an adjective or a noun. As an adjective, it modifies nouns to indicate the highest limit or greatest degree. As a noun, it refers to the highest attainable point or limit itself. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

15%

Travel

7%

Less common in

Sports

7%

Lifestyle

7%

Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "maximum" is a versatile term used to denote the highest limit or greatest extent of something, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Functioning both as a noun and an adjective, it's commonly found in news reports, business documents, and technical specifications. When writing, remember to differentiate "maximum" from "optimum" and consider synonyms like ""highest point"" or ""greatest extent"" for variety. Use "maximum" when referring to quantifiable limits, and remember that precision is key to effectively conveying your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

largest possible

Clearly indicates the greatest size or quantity that is achievable or allowed.

upper limit

Indicates the boundary beyond which something cannot exceed.

greatest extent

Emphasizes the reach or scope to the largest degree.

peak level

Highlights the highest achievable or recorded level.

ultimate amount

Specifies the final and largest quantity or sum.

highest point

Focuses on the peak or culmination of something.

ceiling

Refers to an imposed or natural upper boundary or limit.

topmost degree

Stresses the ultimate or extreme level of something.

fullest measure

Implies achieving the complete or most comprehensive quantity.

optimum

Denotes the most favorable or best possible condition or degree.

FAQs

How can I use "maximum" in a sentence?

You can use "maximum" to describe the highest limit or greatest value. For instance, "The "maximum capacity" of the stadium is 80,000 people" or "What is the "maximum penalty" for the offense?"

What is the difference between "maximum" and "maximal"?

"Maximum" can be used as a noun or an adjective, referring to the highest limit or greatest value. "Maximal" is strictly an adjective, meaning of or relating to a maximum. You might say "reach the maximum" but describe something as having a "maximal effect".

What are some synonyms for "maximum"?

Alternatives to "maximum" include "highest point", "greatest extent", "upper limit", and "peak level". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "maximum" instead of "most"?

"Maximum" is best used when referring to a quantifiable limit or a specific, measurable value. "Most" is more general and indicates the greatest amount or degree without specifying a precise limit. For example, say "the "maximum speed" allowed" but "the most common error".