limit the usefulness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limit the usefulness" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to restrict or decrease the effectiveness or helpfulness of something. Example: The small screen size of the phone limits the usefulness of certain apps.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Multiple renal veins are difficult to visualize at US and limit the usefulness of US in diagnosing and excluding renal vein thrombus.

Cancer Imaging

Many factors and different definitions used in other population studies limit the usefulness of comparing the prevalence findings for UREN.

BMC Ophthalmology

One of the principal limitations in minimotif prediction is that false positives limit the usefulness of this approach.

Plosone

This may limit the usefulness of the length of time spent searching as a useful outcome measure in future research.

BMC Psychiatry

The limited stratification of health facilities in WHO-HAI surveys will limit the usefulness of the data for sector planning within countries.

Globalization and Health

A number of studies of HWT have reported reduced use of interventions over time, suggesting that low adherence may limit the usefulness of HWT as a strategy.

Archives of Disease in Childhood

Other significant side effects, such as nausea and psychological depression upon withdrawal, also limit the usefulness of opiates.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Toxic effects of this kind, though rare, are unpredictable and sometimes highly dangerous, and they severely limit the usefulness of many effective drugs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If doctors have to avoid using clinical terms and medical jargon to make it more readable for the patient, this could limit the usefulness of the record for other healthcare professionals".

The Guardian

Specimen preparation difficulties sometimes limit the usefulness of electron microscopy for microstructural characterization of coatings.

Surface and Coatings Technology

If governments broaden privacy laws, however, they may also limit the usefulness of health data and undercut the benefits of HIT.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Clearly define what the subject would be useful for, before outlining why something is limiting that usefulness. This provides important context to what you are describing.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent to which something's usefulness is limited. Use qualifiers like "partially" or "somewhat" to maintain accuracy and avoid misleading the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limit the usefulness" functions as a verb phrase, often part of a larger clause, indicating a restriction or reduction in the effectiveness or applicability of something. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

77%

News & Media

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "limit the usefulness" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys a reduction or restriction in the effectiveness or applicability of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and appropriate for use in various contexts. It is commonly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, it's beneficial to be specific about the limiting factors and to consider potential solutions or mitigations. While the phrase is versatile, avoiding exaggeration ensures accuracy and maintains credibility in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduce the effectiveness

Focuses on decreasing how effective something is, similar to limiting its usefulness.

diminish the value

Emphasizes a reduction in worth or importance, akin to limiting utility.

curtail the utility

Highlights a restriction on practical application or benefit.

restrict the applicability

Focuses on limiting the range of situations where something can be used effectively.

impair the serviceability

Suggests a reduction in the capacity for reliable use.

decrease the advantage

Highlights reducing any advantage, which relates to usefulness.

undermine the efficacy

Undermines how well something produces the intended result.

constrain the helpfulness

Highlights a restriction on the degree to which something is helpful.

lessen the worth

To make something seem less valuable.

reduce the functionality

Focuses on making something less functional or able to perform its functions.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "limit the usefulness" in a sentence?

Alternatives include "reduce the effectiveness", "diminish the value", or "restrict the applicability", depending on the specific context.

What factors typically "limit the usefulness" of something?

Common factors include design flaws, lack of resources, incompatible technology, or unforeseen side effects. The specific limiting factors vary greatly depending on the subject.

Is it better to say "limit the usefulness" or "decrease the usefulness"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on stylistic preference and the specific nuance you wish to express.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "limit the usefulness"?

This phrase is appropriate in academic, professional, and general contexts when discussing the constraints or drawbacks of a particular method, tool, or resource. For example, "Technical issues may "constrain the helpfulness" of a certain strategy".