max out

To use all the money, space, power, or other capacity available in something.

• Don’t max out your credit card.
• We maxed out the budget before the project ended.
• Running both programs maxes out the computer’s memory.

How to use it: max out something (Downloading those files will max out your storage.)

Similar words: use up, exhaust

Common phrases: max out something, max out credit cards

To reach the highest amount or level possible, so no further increase is possible.

• The machine has maxed out.
• Sales maxed out at a thousand units a month.
• Does this engine max out at that speed?

How to use it: max out at + amount (The connection maxes out at fifty megabits per second.)

Similar words: peak, reach a maximum

Common phrases: max out at something, max out quickly

To reach the most you can do with your strength, ability, or energy.

• I maxed out during training.
• He maxed out at ten pull-ups.
• Have you maxed out, or can you lift more?

How to use it: max out at + amount (She maxed out at eighty kilos on that lift.)

Similar words: reach your limit

Common phrases: max out physically, max out in training

To stay in prison until your entire punishment is finished, without being released early.

• He maxed out last month.
• She will max out her sentence next year.
• Prisoners who max out receive no early release.

How to use it: max out a sentence (He maxed out his sentence and left prison in June.)

Similar words: serve a full sentence

Common phrases: max out in prison, max out a sentence

To rest and enjoy yourself without working or worrying.

• Let’s max out tonight.
• We maxed out on the sofa all afternoon.
• After work, he likes to max out with friends.

Similar words: relax, chill out

Common phrases: max out at home, max out together