Returns the maximum expression value found in each group of rows.

Syntax 1

MAX( expression | DISTINCT expression )

Syntax 2

MAX( expression ) OVER ( window-spec )

window-spec : see Syntax 2 instructions in the Remarks section below

Parameters

Returns

The same data type as the argument.

Remarks

Rows where expression is NULL are ignored. Returns NULL for a group containing no rows.

Syntax 2 represents usage as a window function in a SELECT statement. As such, elements of window-spec can be specified either in the function syntax (inline), or in conjunction with a WINDOW clause in the SELECT statement. See the window-spec definition provided in WINDOW clause.

For more information about using window functions in SELECT statements, including working examples, see Window functions.

This function supports NCHAR inputs and/or outputs.

See also

• MIN function [Aggregate]

Standards and compatibility

Example

The following statement returns the value 138948.000, representing the maximum salary in the Employees table.

SELECT MAX( Salary )
FROM Employees;