A maxim is a short, pithy statement or proverb that expresses a general truth, principle, or rule of conduct. It often conveys wisdom or a moral lesson in a concise form and is intended to offer guidance on how to live or behave. Maxims are closely related to proverbs, but they tend to be more philosophical and can be more universally applicable. While they may not always be universally accepted, maxims are often considered insightful or thought-provoking, serving as rules of thumb for decision-making or moral reflection. The Indonesian equivalent of maxim could be pepatah or prinsip, especially when used to reflect a guiding principle or moral truth.
Synonyms:
- Proverb
- Saying
- Adage
- Aphorism
- Principle
- Motto
- Rule
- Truth
- Guideline
- Dictum
- Commandment
- Belief
- Precept
- Moral
- Canon
Sentences Using “Maxim”:
- The maxim “honesty is the best policy” is often cited when discussing ethical behavior.
- She lives by the maxim that “actions speak louder than words,” always trying to set an example.
- The philosopher’s work is full of maxims about the nature of virtue and personal integrity.
- “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is a popular maxim used to encourage resilience.
- The company’s maxim of “customer first” shapes every aspect of its business model.
- His life was guided by the maxim, “Treat others as you would like to be treated.”
- The lawyer’s maxim in his practice was to never settle for less than what the client deserves.
- The coach followed the maxim that “teamwork makes the dream work,” emphasizing collaboration.
- A classic maxim says that “time is money,” underlining the importance of efficiency.
- The general’s maxim, “Never leave a man behind,” became the foundation of his leadership style.
Related Words:
- Proverb
- Saying
- Adage
- Aphorism
- Motto
- Rule
- Principle
- Precept
- Commandment
- Belief
- Dictum
- Guideline
- Truth
- Canon
- Wisdom
Phrasal Verbs Related to “Maxim”:
- Live by (to follow or adopt a maxim as a guiding principle in life)
- Adhere to (to strictly follow a maxim or principle)
- Abide by (to conform to a maxim or rule, especially in conduct or decision-making)
- Stand by (to support or continue to follow a maxim, even in challenging times)
- Follow through (to act according to a maxim or principle, ensuring your actions align with it)
- Put into practice (to apply the teachings or principles of a maxim in real situations)
- Live up to (to meet the expectations set by a maxim or guiding principle)
- Take to heart (to adopt a maxim or principle deeply and let it guide your actions)
- Hold to (to maintain belief in or commitment to a maxim)
- Stick to (to consistently follow a maxim or guiding principle)
Idiomatic Expressions Related to “Maxim”:
- Practice what you preach (to live according to the principles or maxims one advocates)
- Actions speak louder than words (a maxim suggesting that behavior is more meaningful than verbal promises)
- You reap what you sow (a common maxim about the consequences of one’s actions)
- What goes around, comes around (suggesting that good or bad deeds will eventually come back to a person, like a maxim of fairness or karma)
- Live and let live (a maxim encouraging tolerance and acceptance of others)
- The golden rule (often phrased as “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” a moral maxim about treating others well)
- A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush (a maxim about valuing what you have over chasing uncertain opportunities)
- Don’t count your chickens before they hatch (a cautionary maxim about not assuming success before it happens)
- Haste makes waste (a maxim advising caution and patience, as rushing often leads to mistakes)
- It’s never too late to learn (a maxim about continuous growth and learning throughout life)
- A penny saved is a penny earned (a financial maxim that encourages thrift and saving)
