Meaning & use
maxim
A short, memorable statement expressing a general truth, principle, or rule of good conduct.
See it in a sentence
'Honesty is the best policy' is a maxim she lived by her whole life.
The old maxim about measuring twice and cutting once still guides carpenters today.
A note on using this word
A maxim usually offers practical guidance for behavior, while a 'proverb' can simply describe general wisdom about life.
Words with a similar meaning
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