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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
limitations
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The word "limitations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the things that limit or restrict a person or thing, such as in the sentence: "There are certain legal and financial limitations to starting a business."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Formal & Business
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
McDermott says his squad is too limited and needs January reinforcements – most fans agree, but many of them also detect unexpected limitations in McDermott's approach and are eager to see some new ideas as well as new faces.
News & Media
However we diverge politically, I have enough faith in Eastwood's artistry and intellect to trust that he is not a black-and-white ideologue – or, at least, that he knows that the limitations of such a worldview would make for an extremely dull movie.
News & Media
These are the ideal source of data, but there are several limitations with the data at this local level.
News & Media
There is no statute of limitations for such extreme violence.
News & Media
"It's a good deal – a deal that meets our core objectives, including strict limitations on Iran's program and cutting off every pathway that Iran could take to develop a nuclear weapon".
News & Media
I think that a child does not feel the sublime because a child need not, perhaps cannot, confront the limitations of his or her language – language, for a child, is already miraculous, supple, generous in its association, tragic, hilarious, disproportionate and huge.
News & Media
It was to their credit, you may say, that, recognising their limitations, they wanted an adviser who understood the thoughts and feelings of people less privileged than themselves.
News & Media
Most writers opt for the first or third person - each with its own set of limitations and possibilities.
News & Media
But serious limitations in data collection mean that the report serves as a barometer and not a comprehensive overview.
News & Media
"Accepting the limitations of NHS resources, and the inter-dependencies of care which make providing an equitable service a challenge of viability as well as one of principle, every effort should be made to ensure that the standard of care a patient receives, their experience of it and the outcome as a result, are not impacted by the day of the week".
News & Media
They write: "Even when mitigating factors, such as the remote location and the practical limitations imposed by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection are considered, many aspects of the IHMS health service fall well below accepted standards for clinical practice and are unnecessarily dangerous".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing the "limitations" of a project or plan, be specific and clearly define what those "limitations" are and how they might impact the outcome. This adds clarity and demonstrates a thorough understanding of the topic.
Common error
Avoid simply stating that something has "limitations" without specifying what they are. This can be vague and unhelpful. Always provide specific examples or details about the "limitations" you are referring to.
Source & Trust
94%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The word "limitations" functions primarily as a noun, referring to the state of being limited or restricted. It is used to describe the boundaries, weaknesses, or constraints of something, as affirmed by Ludwig.
Frequent in
News & Media
35%
Formal & Business
33%
Science
32%
Less common in
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The term "limitations" is a commonly used noun that signifies restrictions, boundaries, or shortcomings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific sources, its neutral register makes it widely applicable. When using "limitations", it is crucial to be specific and provide detailed examples to enhance clarity and understanding. Alternative phrases like "restrictions", "constraints", and "shortcomings" can be used to add nuance, but the key is to precisely define what the "limitations" are in any given situation.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
restrictions
Focuses on the act of restraining or controlling, similar to limitations, but emphasizes active control.
constraints
Implies a force or factor that restricts or controls something, highlighting the restrictive element.
shortcomings
Focuses on defects or deficiencies, emphasizing what is lacking or imperfect.
drawbacks
Highlights disadvantages or negative aspects, shifting the focus to the problematic side of limitations.
deficiencies
Points out a lack or inadequacy, emphasizing what is missing or insufficient.
boundaries
Emphasizes the edge or limit of something, shifting focus to the defining lines.
restraints
Implies a holding back or controlling force, highlighting the act of preventing free action.
impediments
Highlights obstacles or hindrances, focusing on what obstructs progress.
restrictions and conditions
Implies that one's behaviour must be in compliance with an external regulation.
qualifications
Emphasizes conditions or requirements that must be met, shifting the focus to specific criteria.
FAQs
How can I use "limitations" in a sentence?
You can use "limitations" to refer to restrictions or boundaries, such as in the sentence, "The project faced several "limitations" due to budget constraints."
What are some words I can use instead of "limitations"?
Alternatives to "limitations" include "restrictions", "constraints", "shortcomings", or "drawbacks", depending on the specific context.
Is it correct to use "limitations" as a singular noun?
"Limitations" is typically used as a plural noun, referring to multiple limits. The singular form is "limitation", which refers to a single limit.
What's the difference between "limitations" and "constraints"?
While both terms refer to restrictions, "limitations" often refers to inherent restrictions or boundaries, while "constraints" often refers to external forces that restrict something. For instance, a design might have "limitations" due to the materials available, but "constraints" due to budget.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
94%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested