WordGarden.iomaximize
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈæksɪmˌaɪz/
US
- /ˈmæksəˌmaɪz/
Meanings
Verb
to make something as large, strong, effective, or beneficial as possible
to make a function or objective reach its highest value
to make a digital window fill the available screen space
Beyond the definition
Imagine you're baking cookies. You want them to turn out as well as possible. To maximize your chances of success, you measure each ingredient carefully, follow the recipe closely, and maybe even add a little extra chocolate. To maximize something means to make it as great, useful, or successful as possible. It is about getting the most out of it. Businesses often try to maximize profits, athletes try to maximize performance, and you might maximize your vacation time by planning it well.
To maximize means to make something as large, effective, or successful as possible. It is about getting the most out of a situation, resource, or opportunity. It is not just about increasing something a little; it is about increasing it as much as you can.
You often hear "maximize" used in business and economics. A company might try to maximize profits by cutting costs or raising prices. But the idea goes far beyond money. An athlete may train to maximize strength and endurance, a student may study to maximize their results, and an artist may try different techniques to maximize the effect of their work.
The word usually implies a deliberate effort. You do not accidentally maximize something; you work at it. It suggests careful planning and a clear focus on the best possible outcome. You might say, "She maximized her chances of getting the job by preparing thoroughly for the interview."
Sometimes, maximize is used when there are limits. In that case, it means getting the most out of something within those limits. For example: "He tried to maximize his savings despite a tight budget." This means he aimed to save as much as possible, even though money was tight.
So whether you are talking about profits, performance, or potential, to maximize is to push something toward its best possible result and get the most out of the opportunities and resources you have.
Examples
- 1
Business profit
The company wants to maximize profits without raising prices.
- 2
Small kitchen
Put the shelves higher to maximize space in the small kitchen.
- 3
Booking early
To maximize your chances of getting a seat, book early.
- 4
Workplace efficiency
The new system helps workers maximize efficiency by reducing repeated tasks.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Training benefits
We need to maximize the benefits of the training, not just finish it quickly.
- 6
Computer windows
Click the square icon to maximize the window.
- Domainmaximize a window
make it fill the whole screen
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- maximizeverb
Forms
- maximizing-ing formverb
- maximizedpast tenseverb
- maximizesverb