are limited

USAGE SUMMARY

"are limited" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a limited number or amount of something. For example, "My options for taking this course are limited."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our options are limited.

Independent

Quantities are limited.

The New York Times

Their options are limited".

The New York Times

Insurance costs are limited.

The New York Times

Seats are limited.

The New York Times

Tickets are limited.

The New York Times - Arts

"Our resources are limited".

The New York Times

Communications are limited.

The New York Times - Magazine

Stores are limited.

The New York Times

Its powers are limited.

The New York Times

The windows are limited.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are limited", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being limited and the reason for the limitation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are limited" without specifying what exactly is limited. For instance, instead of saying "Resources are limited", specify "Financial resources are limited for this project" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are limited" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that the noun's quantity, scope, or extent is restricted. This is supported by Ludwig's analysis and examples, which show it used to describe things like options, resources, and supplies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are limited" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something is restricted in quantity, scope, or extent. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage across various contexts, including news, business, and scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being limited. Alternatives like "are restricted" or "are scarce" can be used to add nuance. Its frequent appearance in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Economist underscores its reliability in formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are restricted

Focuses on the act of restricting, implying a conscious limitation.

are scarce

Emphasizes the rarity or insufficient quantity of something.

are in short supply

Highlights the lack of adequate supply to meet demand.

are finite

Implies that something has a definite and exhaustible limit.

are not extensive

Indicates that something does not cover a large area or scope.

are minimal

Suggests the smallest possible amount or degree.

are capped

Highlights that something has a maximum limit that cannot be exceeded.

are controlled

Focuses on the act of controlling, implying a conscious limitation or regulation.

are rationed

Highlights that something is being distributed sparingly due to scarcity.

are circumscribed

Indicates that something is carefully restricted or confined.

FAQs

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

You can use "are limited" to indicate a restriction or scarcity. For example, "The number of available tickets is limited" or "Our options for resolving this issue are limited".

What can I say instead of "are limited"?

You can use alternatives like "are restricted", "are scarce", or "are in short supply" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "is limited" instead of "are limited"?

The choice between "is limited" and "are limited" depends on whether the subject is singular or plural. Use "is limited" for singular subjects (e.g., "The supply is limited") and "are limited" for plural subjects (e.g., "The options are limited").

What is the difference between "are limited" and "are restricted"?

"Are limited" generally indicates a finite quantity or scope, while "are restricted" implies that something has been actively constrained or controlled. The terms are often interchangeable, but "restricted" often carries a stronger connotation of imposed control.