as in proverb
an often stated observation regarding something from common experience it's a common maxim that "a watched pot never boils," but that's not literally true

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of maxim Here, 20 Forbes Coaches Council members share some essential maxims for senior leaders to follow when offering feedback to direct reports, along with why these principles are so useful for providing guidance to build strong, high-performing teams. 1. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025 Emphasis on quality His allies remembered Taylor for his maxims: The places between the buildings were as important as the buildings themselves. Scott Herhold, Mercury News, 27 Mar. 2025 Mandela’s collaborative strength and ability to rally further reinforces this maxim. Dan Pontefract, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025 But my one hard-and-fast cooking maxim is: Always wash your blender, immediately. Emma Specter, Vogue, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for maxim
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maxim
Noun
  • According to an ancient Neapolitan proverb, ‘More things happen in a day than in an entire century’.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 7 May 2025
  • To butcher a proverb, if Bielsa is for you, who in that corner of England could possibly be against you?
    Phil Hay, New York Times, 22 May 2025
Noun
  • As the saying goes, out with the old, in with the new.
    Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 4 June 2025
  • Adding witty sayings to the leaves of handheld fans, Knighten wanted to make a statement with her products in a fun and unique way.
    Ruth Etiesit Samuel, Essence, 4 June 2025
Noun
  • The use of the words 'genocide' or 'acts of genocide' to describe what is happening in Gaza is no longer debated by international legal experts or human rights organizations.
    Neda Ulaby, NPR, 29 May 2025
  • Letters are limited to less than 250 words and must be signed (no pseudonyms nor initials).You must include your email address, address with city and daytime phone number for verification.
    Letters to the Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 May 2025
Noun
  • For that to be the case, though, their best player has to be able to play and perform utilizing that same motto.
    Eric Nehm, New York Times, 29 May 2025
  • That’s not the only team motto that can be found on the ring, though.
    Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • That adage was put to the test for much of Monday’s game at Kauffman Stadium, where the Royals lost 7-4 to the Reds.
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 26 May 2025
  • As the adage goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, right?
    Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Maxim.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maxim. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on maxim

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!