exceed the bounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceed the bounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something goes beyond established limits or restrictions. Example: "The new policy aims to prevent employees from exceeding the bounds of acceptable behavior in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Huge settlements are being awarded for "pain and suffering" that far exceed the bounds of reasonableness.

The New York Times

But, Ms. Berman added, she wanted to make sure the show didn't exceed the bounds of good taste.

The New York Times

"Yo Mama's Last Supper" isn't a masterpiece but, for better or worse, neither does it exceed the bounds of normal provocation today.

The New York Times

In addition, he said, in the absence of restrictions, those who control corporations "could exceed the bounds imposed on their own contributions by diverting money through the corporation".

The New York Times

He highlights both the amazing power and major limitations of these techniques and describes how applications outside the lab often exceed the bounds of responsible science.

Princeton University

According to Shereshevsky, he returned to the newspaper that day and told his editor that his memory had been tested and was found to exceed the bounds of what was believed to be physically possible.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

In any case, the resulting tariffs do not exceed the bound tariffs agreed upon in the WTO.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Russell's imagination continually exceeds the bounds of a three-act structure.

The Guardian - Film

Oduch's various descriptions and their accompanying pictures exceeded the bounds of prurience.

The Guardian

Nobody at his network seemed concerned that Mr. Santelli had exceeded the bounds of news reporting.

The New York Times - Arts

Heidegger and the Thinking of Place far exceeds the bounds of Heidegger exegesis.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exceed the bounds", ensure the context clearly defines what the "bounds" are. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid confusing "bounds" (limits or boundaries) with "bound" (tied or obligated). "Exceed the bound" is grammatically incorrect in most contexts where you intend to express exceeding limits.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceed the bounds" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe an action that goes beyond established limits or restrictions. It is often followed by a noun phrase specifying what limits are being surpassed. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exceed the bounds" is a grammatically correct and understandable expression that signifies surpassing established limits or restrictions. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is suitable for formal and neutral contexts, commonly appearing in news, scientific, and academic writing. While not excessively common, it maintains a consistent presence in reputable sources. Alternatives such as "surpass the limits" or "go beyond the limits" can be used to convey a similar meaning. It's crucial to differentiate "bounds" from "bound" to avoid grammatical errors and ensure accuracy in conveying your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Surpass the limits

Replaces "bounds" with "limits", implying a similar concept of surpassing restrictions.

Exceed the limitations

Substitutes "bounds" with "limitations", keeping the core meaning intact.

Surpass the restrictions

Similar to "surpass the limits", highlighting the act of going beyond imposed restrictions.

Go beyond the limits

Uses "go beyond" instead of "exceed", suggesting a movement past established restrictions.

Transcend the boundaries

Employs "transcend" to convey exceeding limitations in a more metaphorical or abstract sense.

Overstep the mark

Uses an idiomatic expression to indicate going too far or beyond what is acceptable.

Cross the line

Indicates exceeding a limit of acceptability or appropriateness.

Overreach the authority

Focuses on exceeding the limits of power or authorization.

Go overboard

Uses a colloquial expression to mean exceeding what is necessary or appropriate.

Outstrip the expectations

Implies exceeding anticipated levels or achievements.

FAQs

What does "exceed the bounds" mean?

The phrase "exceed the bounds" means to go beyond the established limits, restrictions, or boundaries of something. It implies surpassing or transgressing a defined scope or range.

How can I use "exceed the bounds" in a sentence?

You can use "exceed the bounds" to describe actions, behaviors, or quantities that go beyond what is considered acceptable, permissible, or normal. For example: "The project's expenses "exceed the budget"." or "His behavior "exceeded the bounds of professionalism"".

What are some alternatives to "exceed the bounds"?

Alternatives to "exceed the bounds" include "surpass the limits", "go beyond the limits", "transcend the boundaries", "overstep the mark", or "cross the line". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "exceed the bounds"?

The phrase "exceed the bounds" is suitable in formal and neutral contexts where you want to emphasize the act of surpassing established limitations. It is often found in legal, academic, and journalistic writing, but can also be used in everyday conversation when discussing limits or boundaries.