the maximum

USAGE SUMMARY

"the maximum" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the highest possible amount, quantity, degree, or value of something. For example, "We are looking for someone who can lift a minimum of 50 pounds, with a maximum weight of 100 pounds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She got the maximum.

The New Yorker

That 33 was the maximum.

The New York Times

"She gave everybody the maximum".

The New Yorker

The maximum fine remains $150.

The New York Times

Aikens received the maximum sentence.

The New York Times

"The maximum from me and the maximum from others".

The Guardian - Arts

The maximum is usually nine.

The Guardian

The maximum reading is 1.

The New York Times

We've built to the maximum.

The New York Times

Ten minutes was the maximum".

The Guardian - Tech

"The maximum is getting married".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the maximum", ensure the context clearly defines what is being maximized. For example, specify "the maximum speed", "the maximum capacity", or "the maximum score" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "the maximum" without specifying what is being maximized. For instance, saying "reach the maximum" is less effective than saying "reach the maximum allowed weight" because it lacks context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the maximum" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI points out, it denotes the highest limit, greatest value, or upper bound within a given context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the maximum" is a versatile noun phrase used to denote the highest limit or greatest extent of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its wide application across various domains. While its usage is prevalent in news, science, and wiki contexts, it's important to provide clear context to avoid vagueness. Remember to specify what is being maximized to ensure effective communication. Consider using alternatives like "the upper limit" or "the peak" for stylistic variation. Overall, mastering the use of "the maximum" contributes to precise and effective writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the upper limit

Focuses on the boundary that cannot be exceeded.

the peak

Implies reaching the highest point, often in a graphical or figurative sense.

the greatest extent

Emphasizes the degree to which something can be stretched or expanded.

the highest level

Highlights the position on a scale or hierarchy.

the utmost

Indicates the highest degree or amount attainable or possible.

the top

A more informal way to refer to the upper limit.

the limit

Focuses on the restriction or boundary.

the ceiling

Implies an upper bound or restriction, often in a financial or metaphorical sense.

the largest amount

Highlights the quantity or size.

the extreme

Indicates the furthest point on a scale or range.

FAQs

How can I use "the maximum" in a sentence?

Use "the maximum" to denote the highest possible amount or degree. For instance, "The tank's "maximum capacity" is 50 liters" or "He aimed for "the maximum score" on the test".

What's the difference between "the maximum" and "the minimum"?

"The maximum" refers to the greatest possible amount, while "the minimum" refers to the smallest possible amount. They represent opposite ends of a range or scale.

What are some alternatives to "the maximum"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "the upper limit", "the peak", or "the greatest extent".

Is it correct to say "maximum" instead of "the maximum"?

While "maximum" can be used as an adjective (e.g., "maximum speed"), using "the maximum" as a noun phrase specifies a particular upper limit or degree that is already understood or defined in the context.