최대

choedae

The greatest, the largest

TOPIK 3

Meaning and Usage

The word '최대' means 'the greatest' or 'the largest' in terms of quantity, size, or degree. It is commonly used to express limits or maximum capacity in various contexts such as weight, speed, number of people, or other measurable quantities.

Common Collocations

  • 최대 용량 (maximum capacity): used when talking about the largest volume or amount something can hold.
  • 최대 속도 (maximum speed): refers to the highest speed allowed or possible.
  • 최대 인원 (maximum number of people): indicates the highest number of people allowed or possible.

Usage Notes

'최대' is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as instructions, specifications, or official limits. It is usually followed by a noun indicating what is being measured or limited.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '최대' with '최소' (minimum). Remember, '최대' always refers to the upper limit or the largest amount, not the smallest.

Summary

Use '최대' when you want to talk about the highest or largest limit of something. It helps specify boundaries clearly and is essential in contexts involving measurements, capacities, or restrictions.

Example Sentences

이 기계는 최대 100kg까지 무게를 견딜 수 있습니다.

I gigyeneun choedae 100kgkkaji mugeureul gyeondil su itsseumnida.

This machine can withstand a maximum weight of 100kg.

최대 속도를 줄이면 연료를 절약할 수 있습니다.

Choedae sokdoreul jurimyeon yeollyoreul jeoryakhal su itsseumnida.

If you reduce the maximum speed, you can save fuel.

회의실에는 최대 20명까지 들어갈 수 있습니다.

Hoeuisire neun choedae 20myeongkkaji deureogal su itsseumnida.

The meeting room can hold up to 20 people.