impose limitations on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impose limitations on" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to place restrictions or constraints on something. Example: The government has decided to impose limitations on the use of plastic bags in order to reduce pollution.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

But to get serious about limiting greenhouse gases, it's not enough to impose limitations on plants that may never get built.

The New York Times

They signify the idea of travel and, at the same time, impose limitations on it.

The New Yorker

Tonight Mr. Bush also had to take firm command of a national agenda, when many suggest that the manner of his election may impose limitations on his powers.

The New York Times

Other companies offering long warranties either don't allow them to be transferred if a car is resold, impose limitations on such transfers or charge deductibles.

The New York Times

The proposed zone, called the Barrier Island Overlay District, would impose "limitations on site disturbance," Mr. Shea said, by prohibiting new lawns and ornamental shrubs and requiring the restoration of native plants to the grounds of a newly constructed house.

The New York Times

The decision, by the Federal Trade Commission, to let the merger proceed was not unanimous, indicating conflicting views among the agency's top regulators over whether to challenge — or impose limitations on — the combined company.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Similarly, to impose limitation on the authority of the government is to invite irresoluble disputes over whether it has overstepped those limits.

SEP

The easement imposes limitations on what the owner can do.

The New York Times

Friends' and family members' attitudes changed too and, although well meaning, imposed limitations on me that were not always necessary.

The New York Times

The regulator would issue licenses to states and territories for the growing of cannabis without imposing limitations on how the crop is used.

The Guardian

Poverty strips individuals of their freedom, imposing limitations on every aspect of their lives, from what they can eat to how they spend their leisure time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about restrictions, consider specifying the purpose or rationale behind why someone would "impose limitations on" something. This adds depth and informs the reader of the motivation behind the limits.

Common error

Avoid using "limitations were imposed" without specifying who imposed them. This can create confusion and weaken the impact of your statement. Always strive for active voice to clarify the responsible party.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impose limitations on" functions as a verb phrase that typically introduces a statement about restricting or controlling something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound. It indicates the act of placing constraints or restrictions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "impose limitations on" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies the act of restricting or controlling something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science sources, it serves to convey the implementation of boundaries or constraints. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in identifying who or what is imposing the limitations and what is being limited. Alternatives like "establish restrictions upon" or "place constraints upon" can offer nuanced variations, but "impose limitations on" remains a versatile and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish restrictions upon

This alternative focuses on the act of setting up boundaries.

place constraints upon

This alternative emphasizes the act of applying restrictions to something.

apply restrictions to

This emphasizes the implementation of limitations.

set boundaries for

This focuses on defining limits or borders.

enforce constraints on

Focuses on making sure limits are respected.

institute controls over

This suggests a more formal and structured approach to limiting something.

restrict the extent of

This phrase is similar to curtail, focusing on reducing the degree or amount of something.

put a ceiling on

This alternative implies a maximum limit being set.

cap at a certain level

Similar to putting a ceiling, but more explicit about the level.

curtail the scope of

This suggests reducing the extent or range of something.

FAQs

How can I use "impose limitations on" in a sentence?

You can use "impose limitations on" to describe the act of restricting something. For example, "The new regulations "impose limitations on" emissions from factories."

What are some alternatives to "impose limitations on"?

Alternatives include "establish restrictions upon", "place constraints upon", or "set boundaries for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "impose limitations on" or "set limitations on"?

"Impose limitations on" and "set limitations on" are quite similar, but "impose" often suggests a more formal or authoritative action, while "set" can be more neutral. Choose the one that best fits the context.

What is the difference between "impose limitations on" and "impose restrictions on"?

While similar, "impose restrictions on" often refers to specific rules or regulations, whereas ""impose limitations on"" can refer to broader constraints or boundaries.