a limited extent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a limited extent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the degree or scope of something, indicating that it is not comprehensive or complete. Example: "The findings of the study apply to a limited extent to the broader population."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Yes, to a limited extent.

The Economist

Polygyny is practiced to a limited extent.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That does happen, to a limited extent.

The Guardian

Their device can already manage this to a limited extent.

The Economist

To a limited extent, foreigners do indeed hold some influence.

The Economist

To a limited extent, war had been photographed before.

The New York Times

This is true only to a limited extent.

The New York Times

Now all can be, albeit to a limited extent.

The New York Times

True, says Mr Daly, but only to a limited extent.

The Economist

To a limited extent, these changes may work to Mr. Bloomberg's advantage.

The New York Times

This system had been used to a limited extent for decades.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a limited extent", ensure that the context clearly defines what the limitations are. Providing specific details about the boundaries can enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a limited extent" when the limitation is actually significant or negligible. Choose more accurate phrasing to reflect the true degree of restriction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a limited extent" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the degree or scope to which something applies or is true. As shown in Ludwig, it's used to qualify statements, suggesting that they are not fully comprehensive or universally applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

49%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a limited extent" is a versatile adverbial modifier used to express caution and qualify statements, indicating that they are not entirely comprehensive. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various domains. While it's prevalent in News & Media and Science, writers should ensure clarity by specifying the limitations being referenced. Alternatives like "to a certain degree" or "up to a point" can be used depending on the context. Avoid using it when the limitation is actually significant or negligible to maintain accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to a small degree

This emphasizes that something exists or is true to a small degree or quantity.

to a partial extent

Emphasizes that something is valid or true only for a part of the whole.

to a certain degree

This alternative indicates that something is true or applicable, but not completely or entirely.

within certain boundaries

This emphasizes the existence of specific limitations or restrictions on something.

up to a point

This suggests that something is valid or effective only to a specific threshold or limit.

in a restricted manner

This highlights that something is done or occurs in a limited or controlled way.

in some measure

This implies that something exists or is true to a certain degree or quantity, but not entirely.

within narrow confines

This highlights the presence of strict limitations or boundaries on something.

only in part

Indicates that something is true or applicable, but not entirely or comprehensively.

to a fractional degree

This suggests that something is valid or effective only to a minimal level.

FAQs

How can I use "a limited extent" in a sentence?

You can use "a limited extent" to indicate that something is true or applicable only to a certain degree or within specific boundaries. For example, "The research findings are applicable to "a limited extent" in other contexts".

What phrases can I use instead of "a limited extent"?

Alternatives to "a limited extent" include phrases like "to a certain degree", "up to a point", or "in some measure", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to be specific about the limitations instead of saying "a limited extent"?

While "a limited extent" is acceptable, providing specific details about the limitations often improves clarity. For instance, instead of saying "The policy was effective to a limited extent", specify which aspects of the policy were effective and under what conditions.

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

"A limited extent" signifies that something is restricted or not fully developed, while "a great extent" implies that something is comprehensive or widespread. They represent opposite ends of a spectrum regarding the degree or scope of something.