at the limit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the limit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is at its maximum capacity or threshold. Example: "The car was running at the limit of its performance during the race."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We're already at the limit.

The Guardian - Opinion

We looked at the limit now being $2,000.

The New York Times

We are at the limit of what humankind could do".

The Guardian

Even now, few workers save at the limit.

The New York Times

I always thought I was at the limit".

The New York Times - Science

We will find ourselves at the limit of our ability to explain or hate or fear.

The New York Times

"We were at the limit of our force then," Yelena said.

The New York Times - Magazine

Nothing could better symbolize Iran's 30-year-old regime at the limit of its contradictions.

The New York Times

That is right at the limit of what the European Central Bank considers acceptable.

The New York Times

Given that her wages are not huge, it's at the limit of what Maria can afford.

The Guardian

At the limit, singer Guy Garvey has conceded, Elbow now wear slightly nicer shoes.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at the limit", ensure the context clearly defines what is being limited, such as resources, capacity, or performance. For instance, specify "at the limit of its processing power" rather than just "at the limit".

Common error

Avoid using "at the limit" without providing adequate context. Saying something is "at the limit" can be vague; specify what boundary or constraint is being approached to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the limit" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying nouns or verbs to indicate a state of reaching maximum capacity, threshold, or boundary. Ludwig shows numerous examples from diverse sources where the phrase describes constraints or extremes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at the limit" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the state of reaching maximum capacity or a boundary. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts like News & Media and Science, with a neutral register. While synonymous with phrases like "at the maximum" or "at capacity", it's crucial to provide sufficient context to specify what is being limited. Common mistakes involve oversimplifying the context, making the phrase vague. In summary, "at the limit" is a versatile phrase, but clarity and context are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the maximum

Directly indicates the highest possible extent or degree.

at the peak

Implies reaching the highest point of achievement or intensity.

at the edge

Suggests being close to a boundary or threshold.

at the breaking point

Emphasizes nearing a point of failure or collapse.

at capacity

Specifically refers to reaching the full holding or operational capability.

to the fullest extent

Indicates using something completely and exhaustively.

up to the hilt

Implies doing something completely, often to an excessive degree.

in extremis

Suggests a critical or extreme situation.

at full stretch

Indicates using something to its maximum ability or extent.

at its height

Similar to "at the peak", focusing on reaching the highest point of something.

FAQs

How can I use "at the limit" in a sentence?

You can use "at the limit" to describe when something reaches its maximum capacity or threshold. For example, "The engine was running at the limit of its capabilities."

What phrases can I use instead of "at the limit"?

Alternatives include "at the maximum", "at the peak", or "at capacity", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "at the limit" and "at the edge"?

"At the limit" implies reaching a maximum capacity or threshold, whereas "at the edge" suggests being close to a boundary or potential danger. The phrases are often interchangeable, but nuance depends on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "at the limit" or "to the limit"?

Both "at the limit" and "to the limit" are acceptable, but they convey slightly different meanings. "At the limit" indicates reaching a boundary, while "to the limit" often suggests pushing something to its maximum potential or endurance.