limit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a restriction or boundary in various contexts, such as time, quantity, or capability. Example: "We need to set a limit on the number of participants for the event to ensure it runs smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But there is a limit".

The New York Times

"The Lib Dems have already championed their commitment in 2010 by ending indefinite detention and are now willing to introduce a time limit alongside resettling 1,500 Syrian refugees and ending the use of pain as a form of restraint".

The Guardian

"Even though Mr Sajid said he didn't commit to a time limit, we are seeking to gain a relationship.

The Guardian

The research also highlights the contradiction of governments seeking to maximise their nation's fossil fuel extraction, as in the UK, while simultaneously pledging to limit global warming to 2C.

The Guardian

"We've now got tangible figures of the quantities and locations of fossil fuels that should remain unused in trying to keep within the 2C temperature limit," said Christophe McGlade, at University College London (UCL), and who led the new research published in the journal Nature.

The Guardian

The new rules put a limit on total public radiation exposures of 0.3 millisieverts (mSv2) per year, and said that "in most cases we would expect them to be no greater than 0.02 mSv per year".

The Guardian

Incredible that they're even thinking about changing standing orders to limit voting rights of some MPs".

The Guardian

It has also had to deal with attempts to limit its operations in a number of cities.

The Guardian - Tech

Rudd said there was no cap or limit on the number of asylum seekers PNG had agreed to take, but he expected over time as people smugglers "got the message" the rate of arrivals would slow.

The Guardian

Despite millions of dollars in aid since the end of the war, healthcare facilities were parlous even before Ebola pushed the entire system to the limit.

The Guardian

They will be able to hold up to £36,000 in savings (in the same account paying 1.4%) without hitting the £500 tax free limit.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting a "limit", be specific about what is being limited and the reasons behind the restriction to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "limiting" when you mean to set a "limit". "Limiting" describes the act of restricting, while "limit" is the actual restriction itself. For example, say "Set a limit" instead of "Start limiting."

Linguistic Context

The word "limit" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it denotes a restriction or boundary. As a verb, it signifies the act of imposing such a restriction. Ludwig AI confirms its versatile usage in various contexts, from setting boundaries to defining maximums.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "limit" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, signifying restrictions or boundaries across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific domains. When using "limit", be clear about what's being restricted and why, avoiding confusion with "limiting". Alternatives include "restriction", "boundary", and "maximum", each with slightly different nuances. Overall, "limit" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent term in English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

restriction

Emphasizes a condition that restricts or controls something.

boundary

Refers to the edge or border that defines the extent of something, be it physical or abstract.

ceiling

Indicates an upper limit or maximum permissible level.

upper bound

A more formal term for the maximum value or quantity.

maximum

Denotes the greatest possible amount or degree.

cap

Suggests a limit or restriction, often on spending or numbers.

restraint

Highlights the act of holding back or controlling something.

curtailment

Implies a reduction or limitation in extent or quantity.

containment

Focuses on keeping something within certain bounds or limits.

demarcation

Highlights establishing a clear boundary or limit.

FAQs

How is the word "limit" used in a sentence?

The word "limit" can be used as a noun to refer to a restriction or as a verb to describe the act of restricting. For example: "There is a speed limit on this road" (noun) or "We need to limit our spending" (verb).

What are some words that mean the same thing as "limit"?

Synonyms for "limit" include "restriction", "boundary", "maximum", and "cap". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "limit" or "limitation"?

Both "limit" and "limitation" refer to restrictions, but "limit" is often more direct. "Limitation" tends to emphasize the state of being limited. For example, "There is a limit" versus "There is a limitation."

What is the difference between a "limit" and a "standard"?

A "limit" is a restriction or boundary that should not be exceeded, while a "standard" is a level of quality or attainment that is expected. A limit is about confinement, whereas a standard is about expectation.