Maxim Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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maxim
[ˈmæksɪm ]
Definitions
philosophy
A concise expression of a fundamental principle or rule of conduct.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maxim |
A maxim is a short, pithy statement conveying a general truth or rule of conduct. It is often used in moral or ethical discussions.
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| saying |
A saying is a simple, often colloquial phrase or sentence that expresses a thought or piece of advice. It is used in everyday conversations.
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| adage |
An adage is a proverb or short statement expressing a general truth that has been accepted over a long period of time. It's ideal for traditional wisdom.
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| aphorism |
An aphorism is a concise, terse, and often witty statement expressing a general truth or observation. This term is often used in philosophical or literary contexts.
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Examples of usage
- She believed in the maxim 'treat others as you would like to be treated'.
- The company motto was a simple maxim: 'Quality over quantity'.
general
A general truth or rule of conduct; a short saying.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maxim |
Used to express a general truth or rule of conduct, often short and to the point.
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| proverb |
Used to express traditional wisdom or a moral lesson passed down through generations.
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| motto |
Used to represent the guiding principles or ideals of an organization, person, or group.
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| axiom |
Used in mathematics, logic, or philosophy to express a self-evident truth that does not need proof.
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Examples of usage
- One of his favorite maxims was 'Live and let live'.
- The teacher often shared wise maxims with his students.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Many thinkers, like Aristotle and Kant, used maxims as foundational principles for ethical reasoning.
- In ethics, a maxim is seen as a personal rule that guides behavior, similar to a law of conduct.
- Maxims often distill complex moral lessons into concise, easy-to-remember phrases, enhancing their impact.
Literature
- Famous writers, including Benjamin Franklin and Oscar Wilde, crafted memorable maxims that continue to influence today’s sayings.
- In literature, maxims can serve as thematic anchors, expressing the essence of a character's viewpoint.
- Maxims often appear in proverbs and fables, teaching lessons through simple yet profound statements.
Pop Culture
- Common expressions and sayings in pop culture frequently draw on maxims, making them relatable and impactful.
- Popular TV shows and movies often feature characters who quote maxims to offer wisdom or insight.
- Many self-help books incorporate maxims to provide readers with easy-to-remember advice on personal development.
Origin of 'maxim'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'maxima', meaning 'greatest' or 'largest'.
- It was first recorded in English in the early 15th century, reflecting its longstanding presence in the language.
- Ancient philosophers often used maxims to convey complex ideas in simple forms, making them memorable.
The word 'maxim' originated from the Latin word 'maxima', meaning 'greatest'. It was first recorded in the English language in the early 17th century. Maxims have been used throughout history in various cultures and disciplines to convey important principles and values in a concise and memorable way.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranked #11,049, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.
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