extend the limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extend the limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the idea of pushing boundaries or increasing the scope of something, such as capabilities, opportunities, or regulations. Example: "In order to foster innovation, we need to extend the limits of our current technology and explore new possibilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Two new ARG's that appeared last month promise to extend the limits of the genre.

The New York Times - Tech

"Everything is nano and we can use nanoparticles to extend the limits.

The New York Times

The zones are uneven because these kinds of local shelter conditions may extend the limits of each zone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Anti-abortion campaigners in Congress are seeking to extend the limits for another year, arguing that a precedent has been set.

The New York Times

Developers have continued to extend the limits of downtown, moving inland with their projects, surrounding new light rail and PATH train stops with shiny new commuter havens.

The New York Times

Small latex balloons were routinely carrying light loads to much greater heights, and Piccard postulated that with a cluster of these he could extend the limits of ballooning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Has the government tried to extend the limit before?

The Guardian

November 5 2007: Tony McNulty, the Home Office minister, says that the government wants to extend the limit, "probably" to 56 days.

The Guardian

An attempt by his predecessor to extend the limit to 90 days earned Tony Blair one of his two parliamentary defeats.

The Economist

But the board decided this month to extend the limit to two years for all shareholders and up to three years in the event of hardship.

The New York Times

Three years later, another effort was under way in the Council to monkey with the law, this time to extend the limit to three terms from two — to 12 years from 8. The prominent New Yorker's blood was still up.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extend the limits", ensure the context clearly defines what limits are being extended and the purpose behind doing so.

Common error

Avoid using "extend the limits" in contexts where a more specific verb phrase would be more appropriate. For instance, instead of saying "extend the limits of knowledge", consider "deepen understanding" or "expand research" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extend the limits" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used with a direct object to indicate the expansion or surpassing of existing boundaries, capabilities, or restrictions. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "extend the limits" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that signifies pushing beyond existing boundaries or expanding capabilities. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "expand the boundaries" or "broaden the scope" exist, "extend the limits" effectively conveys the idea of surpassing current restrictions. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what limits are being extended. Ludwig's examples and analysis provide a solid foundation for understanding and applying this phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expand the boundaries

Focuses on physical or conceptual boundaries rather than general limits.

broaden the scope

Emphasizes increasing the range or extent of something.

push the boundaries

Highlights the act of challenging existing limits.

stretch the limits

Implies testing how far something can go before failing.

expand the horizon

Uses a metaphorical sense of opening up new possibilities or perspectives.

increase the capacity

Specifically refers to increasing the amount something can hold or produce.

enlarge the confines

Highlights making larger or more spacious the borders of some area.

maximize the potential

Focuses on fully developing or utilizing existing capabilities.

amplify the reach

Refers to broadening the extent of influence or impact.

deepen the grasp

Implies gaining a more thorough understanding or control.

FAQs

How can I use "extend the limits" in a sentence?

You can use "extend the limits" to describe pushing beyond current boundaries or increasing the scope of something. For example, "Nanotechnology can "extend the limits" of what is possible in medicine".

What are some alternatives to "extend the limits"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "expand the boundaries", "broaden the scope", or "push the boundaries".

Is it better to say "extend the limits" or "expand the limits"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "extend the limits" is more common. "Expand the limits" is also correct and could be used, although it is less frequently seen.

What does it mean to "extend the limits" of something?

To "extend the limits" of something means to increase its capabilities, range, or possibilities beyond what is currently considered possible or acceptable.