a cap on

USAGE SUMMARY

"a cap on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical object, a limit on something, or a restriction. For example, "The governor has imposed a cap on the number of people allowed in public buildings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The test will have a cap on one end.

WikiHow

The Jubilee effectively put a cap on how much any one family could acquire.

Huffington Post

A cap on immigrants.

Independent

A cap on benefits.

Independent

A cap on tariffs discourages private competitors.

The Economist

A cap on doctor visits.

The New York Times - Health

A cap on hospitalization costs.

The New York Times - Health

Is there a cap on cocaine?

The Guardian - Film

The chancellor announced a cap on welfare.

The Guardian - Money

Is there a cap on maintenance fees?

The New York Times

Labour also supports a cap on care costs.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing policies or regulations, use "a cap on" to clearly define imposed restrictions or limits. For example, "The city council placed "a cap on" new building permits in the downtown area."

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a cap on" one area automatically addresses related issues. Clearly specify what the cap covers and what remains unaffected. For example, if there's "a cap on" tuition fees, specify if it also applies to other mandatory expenses.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cap on" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a limit or restriction. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides examples that demonstrate its role in setting boundaries or constraints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a cap on" is a versatile and frequently used expression to indicate a limit or restriction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for diverse contexts, especially in news, media, and formal business settings. The phrase's primary function is to establish boundaries, and understanding its scope is crucial to avoid misinterpretations. Related phrases, such as "an upper limit on" or "a restriction on", can provide alternative ways to express similar ideas. Being mindful of the specific scope of the restriction when using "a cap on" enhances clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an upper limit on

Replaces "cap" with "upper limit", emphasizing the restrictive aspect.

a restriction on

Substitutes "cap" with "restriction", highlighting the limiting nature.

a ceiling on

Uses "ceiling" as a metaphor for an upper boundary, similar to "cap".

a limitation on

Replaces "cap" with "limitation", directly indicating a constraint.

a constraint on

Similar to restriction or limitation, emphasizing control and constraint.

a curb on

Suggests a restraint or check on something, acting to limit its growth or extent.

a control on

Implies that there is an element of management and regulation.

a check on

Offers a sense of regulation that is used to maintain standards.

a boundary on

Implies that there is a clear line that marks the upper limit of something.

a threshold for

Sets a specific number, percentage or level which indicates a limit.

FAQs

How can I use "a cap on" in a sentence?

Use "a cap on" to indicate a limit or restriction on something. For example, "There is "a cap on the number of" students admitted each year."

What phrases are similar to "a cap on"?

Similar phrases include "an upper limit on", "a restriction on", or "a ceiling on", all indicating a form of limitation.

Is it better to say "cap" or "limit"?

Both "cap" and "limit" can be used to describe restrictions. "Cap" often implies an officially set maximum, while "limit" can be more general. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean to put "a cap on" something?

To put "a cap on" something means to set an upper limit or restriction on it. This can apply to spending, emissions, or any quantifiable item. For instance, to put "a ceiling on" carbon emissions would mean to restrict the amount of carbon that can be released.