To a limited degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To a limited degree" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is true or applicable only to a certain extent or within certain limits. Example: "The new policy will improve efficiency, but only to a limited degree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To a limited degree, some mining companies and the extractive industries' national bodies have moved to clean up their act in recent years.

The Guardian - Opinion

To a limited degree the ADB understands this.

Huffington Post

That already exists to a limited degree on Tribe.net.net

The New York Times

The tradition already exists to a limited degree on Merseyside.

Independent

This is true, but only to a limited degree.

The Economist

The report said that the Syrian authorities, after initially resisting, had cooperated "to a limited degree".

The New York Times

These assumptions are true in practice only to a limited degree.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Opposition in Congress kept the new code from taking effect, except perhaps to a limited degree.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After the horror shows of Lord's and Durham, hope for Australian cricket, to a limited degree, has been restored.

The Guardian - Sport

You will be given a new wrapped item, also of black mesh, that is, to a limited degree, panties.

The New Yorker

Gold mining, a 19th-century establishment, was revived to a limited degree in the late 20th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to a limited degree" when you want to acknowledge a point or action, but emphasize that its impact or extent is not comprehensive or complete. This can add nuance and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to a limited degree" when the limitation is already obvious or insignificant. Instead, focus on the significant aspects or effects to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to a limited degree" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the extent or scope of an action or statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it adds nuance by specifying that something is only partially true or effective. For example, "The tradition already exists to a limited degree on Merseyside."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to a limited degree" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for indicating a partial or restricted extent. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's employed to add precision, preventing broad generalizations by acknowledging constraints. It frequently appears in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts and provides a neutral register suitable for different audiences. When using the phrase, consider alternatives like "to some extent" or "partially" for variety, and avoid using it when the limitation is already self-evident. It’s a valuable tool for balanced and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To some extent

Indicates a certain amount or level, but not completely or fully. Changes the wording for simpler expression.

To a certain extent

Similar to "to some extent" but may imply more defined boundaries. Uses different wording for a slight variation in emphasis.

Partially

Signifies that something is only partly the case. It's a more concise alternative.

Somewhat

A simpler and more direct way to express a limited degree. More informal.

In part

Suggests that something is true or responsible for only a portion of the whole. Shorter and more direct.

Up to a point

Implies that something is true or useful only until a particular threshold. Adds a sense of a cut-off point.

Not entirely

Highlights the incompleteness or lack of totality. Emphasizes what is not fully true.

Within limits

Indicates that something is true or effective only under specific restrictions. Focuses on the constraints.

Moderately

Suggests a middle ground, implying neither a high nor low degree. Emphasizes the intensity.

In a restricted manner

Highlights the constrained nature of something. More formal and emphasizes limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "To a limited degree" in a sentence?

"To a limited degree" is used to indicate that something is true or effective, but not completely or entirely. For example: "The new policy improved efficiency, but "to a limited degree"".

What are some alternatives to saying "To a limited degree"?

Alternatives include "to some extent", "partially", "in part", or "up to a point". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "To a limited degree"?

Yes, "To a limited degree" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in English. It's used to express that something is true or applicable only to a certain extent.

What's the difference between "To a limited degree" and "To a great extent"?

"To a limited degree" indicates a small or partial effect, while "To a great extent" implies a significant or substantial impact. They are antonyms, expressing opposite ends of a spectrum.