top out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "top out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe reaching a maximum level or limit, often in contexts like finance, construction, or performance. Example: "The stock prices are expected to top out at $100 before the end of the year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Those entrees top out at about $20.

The New York Times

Ms. Alvin reckons, "I top out at around 150 pounds.

The New York Times

Rates are likely to top out at less than 5%.

The Economist

June Squibb may top out at 5ft 2in.

The Guardian - Film

Summer afternoons tend to top out in the 80s.

The New York Times - Travel

We can't fly today — the winds top out at 44 miles an hour.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

But the top has topped out".

The New York Times - Sports

Ticket prices topped out at almost $850.

The New York Times - Sports

Their budget topped out at $700,000.

The New York Times

She topped out and leaped off.

The New Yorker

It topped out at 131.96 m.p.h.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing numerical limits, use "top out" to clearly convey the maximum value. For instance, "Prices for the service will "top out" at $99 per month."

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "top out" (to reach a maximum) with "top off" (to add to something until it's full). Using the wrong phrase can completely change the meaning of your sentence.

Linguistic Context

Top out functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the point at which something reaches its highest level or limit. As Ludwig AI pointed out, this phrase is commonly used to describe reaching a maximum or culmination point. The examples from Ludwig show its application in diverse contexts, from prices to physical measurements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Tech

21%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "top out" effectively communicates the concept of reaching a maximum level or limit across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirmed, it's grammatically correct and suitable for a range of situations. While alternatives like "reach a maximum" or "peak" exist, "top out" offers a specific nuance that is valuable in both formal and informal communication. Be mindful of confusing it with "top off", which has a different meaning. Its frequent use in news, technology, and general writing underscores its relevance and versatility in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reach a maximum

This alternative directly replaces "top out" to indicate achieving the highest possible level or extent.

peak

A shorter, more concise synonym that similarly denotes reaching the highest point or level.

reach its zenith

This phrase is a more formal and literary way of saying "top out", suggesting the highest point of development or success.

culminate

Emphasizes the completion or resolution aspect of reaching a high point.

level off

Indicates reaching a point where further increase is unlikely, suggesting a plateau after a rise.

reach the ceiling

This alternative uses a metaphor to describe hitting an upper limit or restriction.

hit the limit

Directly states the action of reaching a predefined boundary or maximum.

max out

A more informal synonym, commonly used in contexts like gaming or technology to denote reaching the maximum capacity or level.

reach the summit

Implies reaching the highest point of an ascent or journey, often used metaphorically for achievements.

finalize

Indicates bringing something to a complete and finished state, which can imply reaching its maximum potential.

FAQs

How can I use "top out" in a sentence?

"Top out" can be used to describe reaching a maximum level or limit. For example: "The temperature is expected to "top out" at 30 degrees Celsius".

What does "top out" mean in construction?

In construction, "top out" refers to completing the structure of a tall building, often marked by a topping-out ceremony when the last beam is placed.

What can I say instead of "top out"?

You can use alternatives like "reach a maximum", "peak", or "culminate" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "topped out" instead of "top out"?

Yes, "topped out" is the past tense form of "top out". For example: "The company's profits "topped out" last year".