What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
maximum
Example
The maximum speed limit on this road is 60 miles per hour. [maximum: adjective]
Example
The company policy allows a maximum of two weeks of vacation time per year. [maximum: noun]
Example
The storm reached its maximum intensity last night. [maximum: noun]
top
Example
The mountain top was covered in snow. [top: noun]
Example
She put the lid on top of the pot. [top: preposition]
Example
He reached the top of his career as CEO of the company. [top: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Top is more commonly used than maximum in everyday language, due to its versatility and broader range of meanings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between maximum and top?
Maximum is often associated with formal or technical language, while top can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
