is strictly off limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is strictly off limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is prohibited or not allowed in a specific context. Example: "The area beyond this point is strictly off limits to unauthorized personnel."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Floor 5 is strictly off limits.

The New York Times

However there is one area of Women United F.C. that is strictly off limits to nonmembers.

The New York Times

"Pitching investment banking in analyst meetings is strictly off limits," Mr. Sheriff said.

The New York Times

But it is well known that any contact with an umpire is strictly off limits.

The New York Times - Sports

It is strictly off limits". Eudora felt that she and not her guests should be the host.

The New York Times

The location of the WiCell laboratory has never been disclosed, and it is strictly off limits to reporters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The ministry itself is strictly off-limits.

The Economist

The nearest we got to the holy city of Medina - which, with Mecca, is strictly off-limits for non-Muslims - was the airport, where I saw pilgrims wearing just two pieces of white cloth, and holy water, one of the few home-produced souvenirs, on sale at £4 for 10 litres.

The Guardian - Travel

As 17 year-old Romanichal Gypsy, and bride-to-be, Shyanne explained, girls like her are supposed to remain virgins until they're married, and sex ed is strictly off-limits.

Huffington Post

He claims he has not had a night out in over a year because he simply cannot afford it, while "snacks and treats are strictly off limit".

BBC

It's strictly off-limits.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is strictly off limits" to clearly and firmly state that something is not allowed or accessible. This phrase is suitable for situations where a high degree of control or restriction is necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "is strictly off limits" in casual conversations where a less formal expression would suffice. Overusing it can sound overly authoritarian or stiff in relaxed settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is strictly off limits" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes the state of something being completely prohibited or inaccessible. As shown in Ludwig, various examples demonstrate its use in specifying restrictions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is strictly off limits" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to denote that something is completely prohibited or inaccessible. As various examples from Ludwig illustrate, it’s frequently found in news and media contexts, serving to establish clear boundaries or restrictions. While versatile, it should be used judiciously to avoid sounding overly formal in casual settings. Alternatives such as ""is not allowed"" or ""is restricted"" may be more suitable depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is absolutely forbidden

Emphasizes the prohibition, making it absolute.

is completely prohibited

Similar to forbidden, but with a stronger emphasis on the prohibition being total.

is entirely prohibited

Synonymous with 'completely prohibited'.

is not permitted

A more formal and polite way of saying something is not allowed.

is not allowed

A general way of saying something is prohibited.

is out of bounds

Suggests a physical or metaphorical boundary that should not be crossed.

is inaccessible

Focuses on the inability to access something.

is unavailable

Indicates something is not currently available or accessible.

is restricted

Implies there are limitations or controls on access or use.

is a no-go area

Informal phrase suggesting a place or topic is best avoided.

FAQs

What does "is strictly off limits" mean?

The phrase "is strictly off limits" means something is absolutely forbidden or not allowed. It implies a firm boundary or restriction.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is strictly off limits"?

It's appropriate in situations where you need to clearly communicate that something is prohibited, especially when enforcing rules or setting boundaries. For less formal settings, consider using alternatives like "is not allowed" or "is out of bounds".

What are some alternatives to "is strictly off limits"?

Alternatives include "is absolutely forbidden", "is completely prohibited", "is not permitted", or "is restricted". The best choice depends on the context and level of formality.

Is "is strictly off limits" grammatically correct?

Yes, "is strictly off limits" is grammatically correct and widely used. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is acceptable and understandable in English.