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Maximum: meaning, definitions and examples

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maximum

 

[ˈmæksɪməm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

The maximum is the highest or greatest value in a set of numbers or data points. It represents the peak or utmost point of something.

Synonyms

highest, peak, utmost.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maximum

Used to describe the greatest possible amount or level that can be reached, usually in quantitative terms.

  • The maximum speed of this car is 200 km/h.
  • Please ensure you do not exceed the maximum limit.
peak

Typically used to describe the top or most intense point of something, often in a period of time, performance, or condition.

  • Tourist visits are at their peak during the summer.
  • He is at the peak of his career.
utmost

Used to describe the highest degree of something, often involving effort, importance, or respect.

  • I have the utmost respect for his achievements.
  • We will do our utmost to resolve the issue.
highest

Used to refer to the greatest level or degree in a range or scale, often used in comparisons and rankings.

  • She received the highest marks in her class.
  • Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world.

Examples of usage

  • What is the maximum number of participants allowed?
  • The maximum temperature for today is 30 degrees Celsius.
Context #2 | Adjective

general

Maximum is used to describe the highest or greatest possible amount or degree of something.

Synonyms

greatest, highest, utmost.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maximum

Often used in scientific, technical or statistical contexts to represent the highest point or level that is allowed or possible.

  • The maximum speed limit on this road is 60 km/h
  • ; We need to ensure the maximum efficiency of the machine
highest

Used to describe the topmost level or rank of something, often in more descriptive or comparative contexts.

  • She reached the highest peak of the mountain
  • ; This university has the highest academic standards
greatest

Used in more general and often more informal contexts to describe something that is the most significant, superior, or notable in a group.

  • She is considered the greatest athlete of all time
  • ; The greatest challenges often lead to the greatest rewards
utmost

Used to emphasize the extreme or furthest level of something, often in terms of effort or importance. It carries a sense of urgency and gravity.

  • We must do our utmost to help
  • ; The safety of our passengers is of the utmost importance

Examples of usage

  • Please fill the cup to the maximum level.
  • The car can carry a maximum of five passengers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'maximum' comes from the Latin word 'maximum,' which means 'the greatest.'
  • It first appeared in English in the late 15th century, mainly used in mathematical and scientific contexts.
  • The term has evolved to be used in many fields, from laws to personal limits.

Mathematics

  • In math, the maximum is the highest value in a set of numbers, making it essential for statistics.
  • The maximum function is often represented by 'max' in equations, helping simplify problem-solving.
  • Finding the maximum can be crucial in optimization problems, where you want the best possible outcome.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'maximum' appears in various film titles and songs, often implying the ultimate experience or level.
  • Video games frequently use the concept of maximum levels or scores to encourage players to reach their potential.
  • In advertising, brands often suggest their products offer 'maximum performance' to attract consumers.

Education

  • In academic grading systems, 'maximum' scores denote the highest marks achievable, often representing excellence.
  • Many educational institutions set a maximum class size to ensure effective teaching and learning.
  • Understanding maximum values can be crucial for students in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Health and Safety

  • Health guidelines often specify maximum temperatures for food storage to prevent spoilage and illness.
  • Occupational safety regulations may define maximum exposure levels to certain substances to protect workers.
  • Regular exercise plans might include a maximum heart rate to ensure participants remain within safe physical limits.

Translations

Translations of the word "maximum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 máximo

🇮🇳 अधिकतम

🇩🇪 Maximum

🇮🇩 maksimum

🇺🇦 максимум

🇵🇱 maksimum

🇯🇵 最大

🇫🇷 maximum

🇪🇸 máximo

🇹🇷 maksimum

🇰🇷 최대

🇸🇦 حد أقصى

🇨🇿 maximum

🇸🇰 maximum

🇨🇳 最大

🇸🇮 maksimum

🇮🇸 hámark

🇰🇿 максимум

🇬🇪 მაქსიმუმი

🇦🇿 maksimum

🇲🇽 máximo

Word Frequency Rank

At #906 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.