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"Máximo" is an adjective which is often translated as "maximum", and "mínimo" is a noun which is often translated as "minimum". Learn more about the difference between "máximo" and "mínimo" below.
máximo(
mahk
-
see
-
moh
)An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
1. (top)
a. maximum
Estoy certificado para bucear hasta una profundidad máxima de 20 metros.I'm certified to dive to a maximum depth of 20 meters.
2. (superior)
a. supreme
El decano es la autoridad máxima de la universidad.The dean is the supreme authority of the university.
c. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
El máximo dirigente del grupo terrorista ha reivindicado las atrocidades cometidas el pasado jueves.The leader of the terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the atrocities committed last Thursday.
Las máximas autoridades en la materia acudirán al congreso.The leading authorities on the subject will attend the conference.
3. (most)
a. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
Lo máximo que podemos hacer es compensarlos por el viaje.The best we can do is reimburse your travel costs.
Lo máximo que puede esperar es que no lo condenen a años de cárcel.The most he can hope for is that he isn't sentenced to years in prison.
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
a. maximum
Cada bote salvavidas puede transportar un máximo de 12 personas.Lifeboats can hold a maximum of 12 persons each.
el mínimo(
mee
-
nee
-
moh
)A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
4. (very small)
a. minimal
La noticia tuvo un impacto mínimo en las redes sociales.The news had a minimal impact on social media.
b. tiny
Tuve que dormir en una habitación mínima que no tenía ni ventanas.I had to sleep in a tiny room with no windows.
c. minute
Necesito ponerme las gafas. No veo nada de lo que dice esta letra mínima.I need to get my glasses. I can't read this minute handwriting.
5. (faintest)
