Up to: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to indicate a limit or a maximum amount, often to show a range.

• You can invite up to 50 people to the party.
• This coupon gives you up to 20% off your purchase.

Emphasizes that the amount mentioned is large or surprising; often used in informal contexts.

• There were as many as 200 people at the concert.
• As many as 20 applicants applied for the job.

Used to specify the highest possible amount or number, often with a formal tone.

• The room can hold a maximum of 100 people.
• Students can borrow a maximum of 10 books at a time.

Used to specify an upper limit to emphasize that it is not a lot, often suggesting that the amount is smaller than expected.

• You should take no more than two tablets a day.
• The meeting will last no more than an hour.

Suitable for indicating a limit that can vary or when you are not sure of the exact amount or time. It often implies that this limit is not necessarily reached.

• You can borrow books for up to two weeks
• The store offers discounts of up to 50%

Best for general use when talking about the highest amount or greatest possible level of something. It indicates the utmost limit that cannot be exceeded.

• The maximum speed limit here is 70 mph
• The room can hold a maximum of 50 people

Used in contexts such as finance, economics, and regulation. It implies a strict upper boundary or limit that cannot be exceeded.

• The new law will cap rent increases at 5% per year
• There's a cap on the amount of data you can use per month

Typically used in formal or technical contexts, especially in fields like construction, finance, or policy-making. It represents a hard limit or the highest possible point.

• The budget ceiling for this project is $2 million
• There’s a ceiling on how much you can earn to qualify for benefits