exceed the limit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceed the limit" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase when you want to describe the situation of someone or something going beyond the established boundaries or acceptable parameters. For example, "His speed exceeded the speed limit, so he was fined by the police."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hundreds, union officials say, exceed the limit of 34 students.

The New York Times

Many handlebars and some cranks greatly exceed the limit.

The New York Times - Sports

But colleges are not told if essays exceed the limit.

The New York Times

Those speeds far exceed the limit for freight trains, indicating the event recorders malfunctioned.

The New York Times

For those who exceed the limit by more than 30 m.p.h., the fine doubles to $100.

The New York Times

Otherwise, the government would need voter approval to exceed the limit.

The New York Times

But Ms. Fleeger would not disclose by how much a driver must exceed the limit to be considered speeding.

The New York Times

If this continues, global warming will fast exceed the limit beyond which scientists say it will become catastrophic and irreversible.

The Guardian

The pope referred to his decision to exceed the limit set by Paul VI quite simply today.

The New York Times

Companies whose emissions exceed the limit are essentially fined and forced to buy credits to compensate for their excess.

The New Yorker

Alternatively, the Republicans said, if costs exceed the limit in any year, Congress could be required to vote promptly on legislation to reduce future costs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

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

Common error

Avoid using "exceed the limit" without clearly establishing the specific limit being referenced. Failing to do so can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceed the limit" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It typically describes an action where something surpasses a pre-defined or legally enforced restriction. Ludwig AI confirms this with its analysis of numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exceed the limit" is a versatile phrase used to describe the action of surpassing a defined boundary, restriction, or maximum value. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Its frequency is considered very common, appearing primarily in scientific and news-related contexts. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly defines the limit to prevent ambiguity. Related phrases such as "surpass the boundary" or "go beyond the threshold" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoiding undefined limits is the key when using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Exceed the allowance

This refers to going over a permitted quantity or resource.

Exceed the capacity

This indicates going beyond the maximum holding or processing capability.

Surpass the boundary

This alternative implies a more significant degree of exceeding, often used in competitive contexts.

Go beyond the threshold

This suggests crossing a specific point that triggers a change or consequence.

Top the maximum

This conveys exceeding the highest allowable value.

Transgress the restriction

This alternative suggests violating a rule or law.

Overstep the bounds

This implies exceeding acceptable or appropriate limits of behavior or action.

Outstrip the quota

This phrase is used when a specific quantity is surpassed.

Break the barrier

This suggests overcoming an obstacle or limitation.

Overshoot the mark

This means going past a target or desired outcome, often unintentionally.

FAQs

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

You can use "exceed the limit" to describe situations where something surpasses a defined boundary. For example, "The athlete's performance exceeded the limit of human endurance".

What's a good alternative to "exceed the limit"?

Alternatives include "surpass the boundary", "go beyond the threshold", or "transgress the restriction" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "exceed the limit"?

It is appropriate when you want to express that something has gone beyond an established boundary, restriction, or maximum value. For example, when discussing speed limits, budgets, or quotas.

Which is more formal, "exceed the limit" or "go over the limit"?

"Exceed the limit" is generally more formal than "go over the limit". The former is often used in professional or academic contexts, while the latter is more conversational.