To reach the maximum limit of something, especially a credit card, capacity, or physical effort.
Use all of something until there is nothing left, or push yourself or something as hard as it can go.
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To spend up to or beyond the credit limit of a credit card or financial account.
"She maxed out her credit card buying new furniture for the apartment."
Millions of Americans have maxed out their credit cards just trying to pay for groceries.
— General financial news reporting, widely cited in outlets like CNN Money and USA Today
To reach or use the maximum capacity or capability of a system, machine, or person.
"The network maxed out during the live stream and thousands of viewers were cut off."
To push oneself to the absolute limit of physical effort, especially in exercise.
"He maxed out on the bench press and had to stop for the day."
To go to the maximum and then 'out' — reaching the end point of a scale.
Use all of something until there is nothing left, or push yourself or something as hard as it can go.
Very common in financial contexts ('max out a credit card'). Also used in fitness ('max out at the gym') and technology ('the server maxed out'). In finance, 'maxed out' is a common past participial adjective. American English in origin but widely used globally.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "max out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.