maximum sentence of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "maximum sentence of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal contexts to refer to the longest period of imprisonment that a person can receive for a particular crime. Example: "The defendant was found guilty and faces a maximum sentence of ten years in prison."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He faces a maximum sentence of life.

The New York Times

She faces a maximum sentence of five years if convicted.

The New York Times

Hefaced a maximum sentence of oneyear in prison.

The New York Times

It carries a maximum sentence of 15 years.

The New York Times

Dangerous driving carries a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment.

The Guardian - Sport

It carries a maximum sentence of four years.

The New York Times

He faces a maximum sentence of 25 years.

The New York Times

Mr. DeJesus faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

The New York Times

The charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years.

The New York Times

It carried a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

The Guardian

It had faced a maximum sentence of an unlimited fine.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "maximum sentence of", ensure you specify the duration or type of sentence (e.g. life imprisonment, 10 years in prison) for clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the "maximum sentence of" is automatically the sentence received. It represents the upper limit, and the actual sentence depends on various factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maximum sentence of" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, typically a unit of time or a form of punishment (e.g. "life imprisonment"). According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "maximum sentence of" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term, predominantly found in legal and journalistic contexts. It indicates the most severe punishment that can be legally imposed for a crime. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English. While alternatives like "longest possible sentence" or "maximum penalty" exist, "maximum sentence of" is direct and widely understood. It's important to remember that the "maximum sentence of" represents the upper limit and is not necessarily the sentence a defendant will receive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

longest possible sentence

Emphasizes the length of the imprisonment term, rather than the legal limit.

maximum penalty

Replaces "sentence" with a broader term, including fines or other punishments.

stiffest sentence

Implies a severe penalty, focusing on the harshness of the sentence.

ultimate sentence

Highlights the finality and severity of the punishment.

highest possible punishment

Replaces "sentence" with a more general term, focusing on punitive measures.

severest punishment allowable

More formal wording, emphasizing legality and the severity of the outcome.

most extreme penalty

Emphasizes the extremity of the punishment.

top end of the sentencing guidelines

Refers specifically to guidelines used in determining sentences.

full extent of the law

More figurative language, referring to the complete legal repercussions.

greatest possible term of imprisonment

Specifies the form of punishment (imprisonment) in a more descriptive way.

FAQs

How is "maximum sentence of" used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "maximum sentence of" refers to the most severe penalty a person can receive for a crime, as defined by law. It doesn't guarantee that the defendant will receive that sentence, but sets the upper limit.

What's an alternative to "maximum sentence of"?

You can use alternatives such as "longest possible sentence" or "maximum penalty", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What factors influence whether a defendant receives the "maximum sentence of"?

Several factors influence sentencing, including the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, mitigating circumstances, and relevant sentencing guidelines. The "maximum sentence of" represents the harshest punishment allowable by law.

Is the "maximum sentence of" always a prison sentence?

No, the "maximum sentence of" isn't always a prison sentence. Depending on the crime, it could involve fines, probation, community service, or other penalties. The term "sentence" is broader than just imprisonment.