exceeding the bounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceeding the bounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or behaviors that go beyond established limits or boundaries. Example: "His behavior at the meeting was exceeding the bounds of professionalism, leading to discomfort among the attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

His playing is infinitely refined without ever exceeding the bounds of what's idiomatic for the music.

The New Yorker

Many pious, ordinary citizens agree that performers such as Mr Youssef come close to exceeding the bounds of decency.

The Economist

He has also been called arrogant and condescending, and accused of exceeding the bounds of his actual expertise.

The New York Times

You then compare the outcomes, and if the difference is large enough, exceeding the bounds of chance or natural variation, the result is said to be statistically significant.

The New Yorker

That danger of abuse has required this Court closely to scrutinize these cases to guard against exceeding the bounds of discretion in the use of the power.

Cornell University

It is significant that the United States in its complaint did not charge the enabling acts of Oklahoma with unconstitutionality, but assailed merely the Governor's action as exceeding the bounds of law.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

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

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

The New York Times

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 "exceeding the bounds", ensure the context clearly defines the specific limits being surpassed to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "exceeding the bounds" when simply 'meeting' or 'reaching' limits. The phrase implies surpassing what is considered acceptable, normal, or legal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceeding the bounds" typically functions as part of a predicate, often modifying a noun or pronoun to describe the extent to which something has gone beyond acceptable or established limits. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exceeding the bounds" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe situations where actions or quantities surpass established limits. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. While versatile, its use often carries a negative connotation, signaling disapproval or concern. It appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts, demonstrating its adaptability across various registers. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in defining the limits being surpassed to enhance understanding and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Surpassing the limits

Replaces "exceeding" with "surpassing", focusing on the act of going beyond.

Going beyond the limits

Uses a more common and straightforward verb phrase.

Exceeding the permissible limits

Adds emphasis to the violation of established and allowed boundaries.

Exceeding the parameters

Emphasizes going beyond specified parameters or guidelines.

Overstepping the mark

An idiomatic expression indicating behavior that is unacceptable.

Transcending the boundaries

Implies exceeding limitations in a more significant or transformative way.

Violating the restrictions

Focuses on the breaking of rules or constraints.

Breaking the confines

Highlights escaping from a restrictive space or situation.

Going overboard

An informal phrase indicating excessive behavior.

Exceeding expectations

Shifts the focus to performance exceeding anticipated levels.

FAQs

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

You can use "exceeding the bounds" to describe situations where actions or behaviors go beyond acceptable limits, such as in the sentence, "His behavior at the meeting was exceeding the bounds of professionalism."

What can I say instead of "exceeding the bounds"?

You can use alternatives like "surpassing the limits", "going beyond the limits", or "overstepping the mark" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "exceeding the bounds" or "surpassing the bounds"?

Both "exceeding the bounds" and "surpassing the bounds" are correct. The choice depends on stylistic preference, though "exceeding the bounds" might be perceived as slightly more formal.

What's the difference between "exceeding the bounds" and "pushing the boundaries"?

"Exceeding the bounds" implies going beyond established limits, often with negative connotations. "Pushing the boundaries" suggests challenging limits to expand possibilities and is generally perceived positively.