What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extrema
Example
The extrema of this function occur at x=2 and x=-3. [extrema: noun]
Example
The hurricane reached its extrema when it made landfall. [extrema: plural noun]
Example
The stock market experienced extrema during the recession. [extrema: plural noun]
maximum
Example
The maximum speed limit on this road is 55 mph. [maximum: adjective]
Example
The company reached its maximum capacity for production. [maximum: noun]
Example
The athlete achieved a new personal maximum in the high jump. [maximum: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Maximum is more commonly used than extrema in everyday language. Maximum is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while extrema is less common and is mostly used in mathematical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extrema and maximum?
Extrema is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, while maximum is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
