Obergrenze

Obergrenze is a German term that literally means an upper limit or ceiling and is used to denote a maximum quantity or value that may not be exceeded. It appears in everyday language as well as in technical or policy contexts.

In mathematics and related disciplines, the term is used informally to describe an upper bound for a set or a function. The formal concept is an upper bound (obere Schranke); the least upper bound is called the supremum. In strict mathematical writing, the phrase Obergrenze is less common, with the terminology “obere Schranke” or “Supremum” preferred.

In economics, statistics, and public policy, Obergrenze denotes a cap on an allowed amount or number. Examples include a tax or spending ceiling, a budgetobergrenze, or a cap on immigration or asylum applications. Such upper limits are often debated in political and legislative processes because they constrain resource allocation and influence social and economic outcomes.

The term is closely related to Untergrenze (lower limit) and Höchstgrenze, which is a more common everyday synonym for upper limit or maximum. While Obergrenze can be used in formal and informal contexts, in mathematics and precise technical writing more specific terms are typically used.