maxim
word
Definition
A maxim is a short statement that expresses a general truth, principle, or rule for behavior.
Usage & Nuances
"Maxim" is formal and often used in essays, philosophy, or literature. It's less common in everyday conversation than words like "saying" or "proverb." Common collocation: "the old maxim." Distinct from "motto" (personal slogan) or "rule of thumb" (practical guideline).
Spanish: máxima - proverbioPortuguese (BR): máxima - provérbioPortuguese (PT): máxima - provérbioChinese (Simplified): 格言 - 箴言Chinese (Traditional): 格言 - 箴言Hindi: सूक्ति - सूक्ति-वचनArabic: حكمة - قول مأثورBengali: নীতি - বাক্য (উক্তি)Russian: максима - изречениеJapanese: 格言Vietnamese: châm ngôn - câu cách ngônKorean: 격언Turkish: maksim - özdeyişUrdu: قول (اصول) - مقولہIndonesian: maksim - pepatah (formal)
Example Sentences
The maxim "honesty is the best policy" is well known.
basic
My grandfather often shared a wise maxim with us.
basic
A maxim can guide you in difficult situations.
basic
She lives by the old maxim: "Actions speak louder than words."
natural
There's a maxim in business: "The customer is always right."
natural
You know what they say—there’s a maxim for every situation.
natural