a limit of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a limit of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing constraints, boundaries, or maximum values in various contexts, such as mathematics, regulations, or personal limits. Example: "There is a limit of three attempts allowed for this exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But there is a limit, of course".

Independent

One provides a limit of ¥10,000.

The Economist

"Make it a limit of one".

The New York Times - Sports

Other parties have a limit of £700,000.

The Guardian

There is a limit of two tickets per person.

The New York Times

There will be a limit of 12 visitors per tour.

The New York Times

A limit of twelve candidates would be imposed.

The New Yorker

There is a limit of four tickets a person.

The New York Times

There is a limit of one order per household.

The New York Times - Arts

There is a limit of five items per person.

The New York Times

Ms. Schimmer proposed a limit of a year.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting expectations or rules, clearly state "a limit of" to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "Tickets are limited", specify "There is "a limit of" two tickets per person".

Common error

Avoid assuming the audience understands the "limit" applies universally. For example, instead of saying "There's "a limit of" one", clarify "There's "a limit of" one item per customer" to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a limit of" functions as a quantifier or determiner, specifying a maximum or restriction on a noun. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples demonstrating its use in setting boundaries or constraints. It indicates a defined threshold or upper bound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a limit of" is a versatile phrase used to express restrictions or maximums across various contexts. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and scientific writing. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what the limit applies to, preventing potential misunderstandings. Alternatives such as "a maximum of" or "a restriction of" can be used to add variety, but "a limit of" remains a straightforward and widely understood choice for setting boundaries or constraints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a maximum of

Emphasizes the highest permissible amount or degree; it's a direct synonym focusing on the upper boundary.

a restriction of

Highlights the act of restraining or controlling something, implying a rule or regulation is in place.

a cap of

Implies an official or agreed-upon maximum, often used in discussions of spending or quotas.

an upper bound of

More formal and often used in mathematical or technical contexts to specify the highest possible value.

a ceiling of

Suggests an imposed upper level, often used in financial or regulatory settings.

a constraint of

Focuses on a factor that restricts or limits something, often due to practical or resource limitations.

a maximum allowable of

Directly indicates the greatest extent or amount that is permitted or tolerated.

a threshold of

Indicates a point that must be exceeded to produce a given effect or result, acting as a boundary.

a cutoff of

Suggests a clear dividing line or point at which something is no longer allowed or valid.

a quota of

Specifies a fixed quantity or share that is allowed or assigned, especially in trade or production.

FAQs

How can I use "a limit of" in a sentence?

You can use "a limit of" to specify a maximum quantity, amount, or duration. For example, "There is "a limit of three" attempts allowed for this exam", or "The project has "a limit of one year" for completion".

What are some alternatives to "a limit of"?

Alternatives include "a maximum of", "a restriction of", or "an upper bound of", depending on the specific context. Each conveys a similar sense of constraint or boundary.

Is it better to say "the limit is" or "a limit of"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have different meanings. "The limit is" states a definite, pre-established boundary (e.g., "The limit is three"). "A limit of" introduces a new limit (e.g., "There is "a limit of three"").

How does "a limit of" differ from "limited to"?

"A limit of" specifies a maximum value or quantity (e.g., "There is "a limit of two tickets" per person"). "Limited to" describes something being restricted or confined to a specific scope or group (e.g., "This offer is limited to new customers").