Word
maximize
Phoneticsmax·i·mize, stress on the first syllable
/ˈmæksəˌmaɪz/
UK spelling · maximise
Definitions
01to make as large as possible
B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic
v. to increase something to the highest possible amount or level.
v. to increase or make as great as possible in size, amount, or importance. Transitive — requires a direct object.
“The company is trying to maximize its profits by cutting unnecessary costs.”
“To maximize the efficiency of the new solar panels, the engineers adjusted the angle of the array to capture more direct sunlight throughout the day.”
Usage
Often used in business and scientific contexts with abstract nouns like 'potential', 'efficiency', or 'profit'.
02to expand a window
B1 · Intermediate Computing
v. to make a window on a computer screen fill the entire display area.
v. to expand a graphical user interface window to its maximum size, typically filling the entire screen.
“You can maximize the video window to see the details more clearly.”
“After opening the spreadsheet, maximize the window so that all the columns are visible without needing to scroll horizontally.”
Usage
Usually used as a transitive verb or in the passive voice when referring to the state of the window.
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “maximize” in context.
Verb
01. maximise benefit
“To maximise benefit from the course, students are encouraged to participate in all workshops.”
verb + noun
02. maximise potential
“The new training program is designed to help employees maximise their professional potential.”
verb + noun
03. maximise profit
“The company implemented cost-cutting measures to maximise profit in the final quarter.”
verb + noun
04. maximise return
“Investors are always looking for diversified portfolios that maximise return while minimizing risk.”
verb + noun
Real-World Examples
“To cut spending, she makes the most of discounts and deals, and joins with friends to maximise the benefits.” “The researchers themselves took steps to maximise safety.” Etymology
From Latin maximus + -ize.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · AdvancedOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/maximize