is off-limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is off-limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is prohibited or restricted from access or discussion. Example: "The area beyond the fence is off-limits to all visitors for safety reasons."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Fighting, though, is off-limits.

The Economist

No topic is off-limits in theater.

The New York Times

So, Rio 2016 is off-limits, right?

Independent

Even coffee is off-limits.

The Washington Post

And no question is off-limits!

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Nothing is off-limits," Ms. Scanlon said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

That is off limits.

The New York Times - Sports

It is off limits".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

What is off limits?

The New York Times - Sports

Nothing is off limits during this interview".

The New York Times

"I would say nothing is off limits".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is off-limits", ensure the context clearly defines what is being restricted and the reason for the restriction to avoid ambiguity. For example, "That topic is off-limits during family dinners."

Common error

Avoid using "is off-limits" without specifying to whom or under what circumstances something is restricted. Saying "This is off-limits" without context can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is off-limits" functions as a predicative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that it is restricted, prohibited, or inaccessible. Ludwig examples confirm this, showing the phrase consistently used to describe something that cannot be entered, discussed, or used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

16%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is off-limits" is a commonly used adjective phrase that indicates something is restricted or prohibited. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, academia, and general conversation. When using "is off-limits", clarity is crucial; specify what is restricted and why to prevent confusion. Alternatives like "is prohibited" and "is restricted" can provide similar meanings depending on the desired level of formality or emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is prohibited

Indicates a formal ban or restriction, emphasizing the lack of permission.

is forbidden

Implies a strong prohibition, often with legal or moral weight.

is restricted

Highlights limitations or constraints placed on access or use.

is out of bounds

Suggests a boundary or limit that should not be crossed, often in a figurative sense.

is not allowed

States a lack of permission, suitable for direct and simple contexts.

is inaccessible

Focuses on the inability to reach or obtain something.

is unavailable

Emphasizes the lack of availability, whether temporary or permanent.

is excluded

Indicates that something or someone is deliberately left out or prevented from participating.

is taboo

Signifies something that is culturally or socially forbidden, often due to strong moral reasons.

is beyond reach

Implies something is unattainable or impossible to achieve.

FAQs

What does "is off-limits" mean?

The phrase "is off-limits" means that something is prohibited, restricted, or not allowed. It can refer to physical spaces, topics of conversation, or certain behaviors.

How can I use "is off-limits" in a sentence?

You can use "is off-limits" to indicate that something is not permitted or accessible. For example, "The construction site "is off-limits" to the public."

What can I say instead of "is off-limits"?

Alternatives to "is off-limits" include "is prohibited", "is forbidden", or "is restricted" depending on the context.

Is it "off-limits" or "off limits"?

"Off-limits" is typically hyphenated when used as an adjective, as in "The area is off-limits". "Off limits" without the hyphen can be used as an adverb, but this usage is less common.