it is off limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is off limits" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is prohibited or restricted, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The area beyond the fence is off limits to all visitors for safety reasons."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The state tried to purchase the lake in 1957, but was outbid by a group of investors who turned the land around it into a private housing development; as such it is "off limits" to the public.

Wikipedia

It is off limits".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"People think that it is off limits so they don't even consider it as an option.

The Guardian

According to the ethics policies of the leading associations for antiquities scholars, that means it is off limits.

The New York Times - Arts

Circling, narrowly missing a spot, outmaneuvering other motorists to finally ease into a space only to discover that it is off limits during working hours.

The New York Times

The well-worn refrain about the Australian republic is that it is off limits until Her Majesty the Queen shuffles off the mortal coil.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The rooftop pool has a stunning view of the city, but despite its inviting Hockneyesque shimmer, it's off limits until the landscaped terrace and cabanas are finished this summer.

The New York Times - Travel

They sold when they had to, especially considering issues with quality control and support, and I trust Pettis will bring the open-source ethos to Stratasys headquarters and tell them it's off limits.

TechCrunch

I snuck a peek inside Mobutu's private bedroom and bath but the hostess explained it was "off limits".

Vice

"It's off-limits to approach the genitals and breasts," she said.

The New York Times

(It's off-limits for press).

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is off limits" to clearly communicate that something is restricted or not allowed. It's versatile enough for both physical spaces and abstract topics.

Common error

Avoid using "it is off limits" without specifying what "it" refers to. For example, instead of saying "That's off limits", clarify by stating "That topic is off limits during dinner" to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is off limits" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes a subject as being restricted or forbidden. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly used to denote restrictions, whether physical or abstract.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is off limits" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression indicating that something is restricted or prohibited. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its versatility across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Wiki. While generally neutral in register, its formality can shift depending on the specific domain. For clearer and more precise communication, replace with alternatives like "it is prohibited", or ensure clarity by explicitly stating what is being restricted. This phrase effectively communicates boundaries and limitations in both physical and abstract scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is prohibited

Directly states a prohibition, often implying a formal rule or regulation.

it is forbidden

Similar to prohibited, but can carry a stronger sense of authority or moral implication.

it is not allowed

Simple and direct way of stating that something is not permitted.

it is restricted

Indicates limitations or constraints, rather than a complete ban.

it is not permitted

Similar to not allowed, but slightly more formal.

it is out of bounds

Suggests a transgression of established limits, often in a playful or informal manner.

access is denied

Focuses on the inability to enter or use something, often due to security or permission issues.

it is not accessible

Focuses on the physical or logical inability to reach or use something.

it is closed

Indicates that something is shut down or unavailable, often temporarily.

it is unavailable

Implies that something cannot be obtained or used, often temporarily.

FAQs

What does "it is off limits" mean?

The phrase "it is off limits" means that something is restricted, prohibited, or not allowed. It can refer to a physical location, a topic of conversation, or any other subject that is not permitted or accessible.

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

You can use alternatives like "it is prohibited", "it is forbidden", or "it is restricted" depending on the context.

Is "off limits" one word or two?

"Off limits" is typically written as two separate words when used as a predicate adjective, as in the phrase "it is off limits". When used as a compound adjective before a noun, it can be hyphenated: "off-limits area".

How formal is the phrase "it is off limits"?

The phrase "it is off limits" is generally considered neutral in formality. It's suitable for a variety of contexts, from casual conversation to more formal announcements, although more formal alternatives like "it is prohibited" may be preferred in certain situations.