ма́ксима

nounfeminineinanimatecountable

1.
maxim, guiding principle, rule of life, preceptphilosophy
Он живёт по свое́й ма́ксиме: никому́ не доверя́ть.
He lives by his maxim: trust no one.
Often in philosophical or ethical contexts (e.g. Kant).
2.
maxim, aphorism, pithy saying, sententialiterature
Э́ту ма́ксиму припи́сывают Ларошфуко.
This maxim is attributed to La Rochefoucauld.
A short memorable statement, often quoted.

Examples

Философ вывел новую максиму из своих наблюдений.
The philosopher formulated a new maxim based on his observations.
Он часто повторяет одну и ту же максиму.
He often repeats the same maxim.
Эта максима стала для него жизненным правилом.
This maxim became a guiding principle in his life.