breaking limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "breaking limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of surpassing boundaries or constraints, whether they are personal, professional, or societal. Example: "In her quest for innovation, she is constantly breaking limits and redefining what is possible in technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

On air pollution, the refinery has a similarly checkered history, a pattern of breaking limits on air pollution and being slow to report those events, state officials claim in legal complaints.

The New York Times

Mr. Zoellick said the United States would be in a better negotiating position at world trade talks precisely because American farmers are receiving record amounts of subsidies without breaking limits imposed by the W.T.O.

The New York Times

This finding leads to the conclusion that in non urban roads all those exceeding speed limits are aware that they are breaking limits they consider appropriate.

European Transport Research Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"But in freestyle you have to totally break limits and go from one trick to a new, completely unfamiliar movement where you might land on your head".

The New York Times - Sports

And being an "incorporated person" has its advantages, such as tax breaks, limited liability and deductions for incurred costs.

The Economist

In a debate largely about domestic policy, tax and spending cuts took centre stage while the candidates broke limited new ground.

The Guardian

These accommodations could include providing a seat for employees who spend long periods standing, allowing more frequent restroom breaks, limiting heavy lifting or transferring an employee to a less strenuous or hazardous position.

The New York Times

The film broke limited-release box-office records and grossed an unexpectedly high $329,398,046.

Wikipedia

When the oven breaks, limit cooking to the stovetop (or carry the damned half-cooked turkey to and from the oven of an out-of-town neighbor as I did last year).

Huffington Post

Collectively, the results indicate that both the transfer of an electron to the ferrous·O2 complex and C H bond-breaking limit the rate of P450 4A11 ω-oxidation.

Biochemistry

Gone are the days where job interviews were limited by proximity, breaking news limited by slow mediums, or even friendships limited by meeting someone face-to-face.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "breaking limits" to convey the idea of surpassing conventional restrictions or boundaries. This phrase is suitable when emphasizing innovation, exceeding expectations, or challenging norms.

Common error

Avoid using "breaking limits" in contexts where simply meeting expectations or adhering to existing rules is sufficient. The phrase is most impactful when describing actions that genuinely go beyond what is typically considered possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "breaking limits" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "breaking" is a transitive verb and "limits" is its direct object. As Ludwig confirms, it is typically used to describe surpassing or exceeding boundaries. Examples found through Ludwig show its use in contexts related to regulations, speed, and conventional standards.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "breaking limits" describes exceeding established restrictions or boundaries. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While relatively infrequent, its usage spans across contexts ranging from news and media to scientific and formal communications. Alternatives such as "pushing boundaries" or "surpassing limits" can be used depending on the specific nuance. The phrase is most effective when emphasizing innovation, progress, or a challenge to conventional norms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pushing boundaries

Focuses on the act of extending beyond current boundaries, often in an exploratory sense.

surpassing limits

Emphasizes exceeding existing limitations or restrictions.

exceeding boundaries

Highlights going beyond defined or accepted limits.

defying limitations

Implies a direct challenge to existing restrictions or constraints.

transcending limitations

Suggests rising above and beyond inherent restrictions.

overcoming barriers

Focuses on successfully dealing with obstacles or impediments.

challenging norms

Implies questioning and potentially changing established standards.

redefining boundaries

Highlights altering the perception and definition of existing limits.

innovating beyond constraints

Focuses on creating new solutions despite existing limitations.

stretching the envelope

Emphasizes pushing the boundaries of what is considered possible or acceptable.

FAQs

What does "breaking limits" mean?

The phrase "breaking limits" signifies surpassing existing restrictions, boundaries, or expectations. It implies going beyond what is considered normal or possible.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "breaking limits"?

It is appropriate to use "breaking limits" when describing actions or achievements that significantly exceed established standards or constraints. Consider using "pushing boundaries" or "surpassing limits" as alternatives.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "breaking limits"?

Alternatives to "breaking limits" include "pushing boundaries", "exceeding expectations", or "challenging norms". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How can I use "breaking limits" effectively in writing?

To use "breaking limits" effectively, ensure the context clearly demonstrates a surpassing of established norms or restrictions. For example, "The new technology is "breaking limits" in data processing speed."