the old maxim

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the old maxim" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used when referring to a proverb or saying that has been shared or passed down through generations. For example, "As the old maxim goes, 'A stitch in time saves nine.'".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is a partial victory for the old maxim, "the bookmakers are never wrong".

BBC

The old maxim of better safe than sorry may apply.

The New Yorker

The old maxim is true: Just get in there.

The Guardian - Sport

It suggests that coaches really do heed the old maxim, "Win at home, draw away".

The New Yorker

The old maxim is that it is better to watch sport live, in the round.

The Guardian - Sport

As the old maxim goes: act in haste, repent at leisure.

The Guardian

Usmanov, though, offered a fresh take on the old maxim about never going back.

The Guardian - Sport

The old maxim about Arab books maintained that "Cairo writes, Beirut publishes and Baghdad reads".

The New York Times - Books

For journalists, readers and viewers alike, the old maxim must hold good: never assume.

The Guardian - Opinion

The old maxim "leave them wanting more" has never been truer.

The Guardian - Music

The old maxim, "it's not what you know but who you know" needs updating.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the old maxim", ensure the maxim itself is widely recognized and relevant to your audience. If the maxim is obscure, provide context or explain its meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "the old maxim" without ensuring your audience understands the saying you're referencing. If the maxim is not widely known or its meaning is not immediately clear, briefly explain it to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the old maxim" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a determiner phrase, which introduces a generally accepted truth or principle. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts, validating its grammatical correctness and widespread recognition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

23%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the old maxim" is a commonly used phrase that introduces a well-known saying or principle. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While synonyms like "the old saying" or "a common expression" exist, it's crucial to ensure the specific maxim being referenced is widely understood by your audience. It appears most frequently in news and media, reflecting its role in conveying established truths and shared understandings. Remember to avoid assuming familiarity with the maxim to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the old saying

Replaces 'maxim' with 'saying', indicating a common expression passed down through generations.

the well-known adage

Substitutes 'maxim' with 'adage', emphasizing the wisdom and long-standing acceptance of the saying.

the traditional proverb

Replaces 'maxim' with 'proverb', highlighting the saying's roots in folk wisdom and cultural heritage.

the established wisdom

Replaces the entire phrase, focusing on the idea of accepted knowledge rather than a specific saying.

the time-honored principle

Substitutes 'maxim' with 'principle', emphasizing a fundamental truth or guiding rule.

as the saying goes

Shifts the focus to the act of saying, rather than the saying itself; more conversational.

the age-old truth

Highlights the enduring nature of the statement, implying its validity across different eras.

a common expression

Offers a more general term, suitable when the specific saying isn't universally known.

the conventional wisdom

Refers to beliefs or ideas that are widely accepted but may not necessarily be true.

the classic rule of thumb

Suggests a practical and easily remembered guideline, often based on experience rather than strict science.

FAQs

What does "the old maxim" mean?

The phrase "the old maxim" refers to a well-known saying or proverb that has been passed down through generations. It implies a generally accepted truth or principle.

How can I use "the old maxim" in a sentence?

You can use "the old maxim" to introduce a commonly known saying. For example: "The project's success proves "the old maxim" that 'hard work pays off'."

What is a synonym for "the old maxim"?

Synonyms for "the old maxim" include "the old saying", "the well-known adage", or "the traditional proverb".

Is it appropriate to use "the old maxim" in formal writing?

Yes, "the old maxim" can be appropriate in formal writing, especially when introducing a relevant and widely recognized principle or truth. However, ensure the maxim itself aligns with the formality of the context.