limited them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limited them" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing restrictions or constraints placed on a group or individuals. Example: "The new regulations limited them in their ability to expand their business operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

America limited them in the 1930s.

The Economist

"We limited them to very little," said Still.

The Guardian - Sport

They are a very good team and we limited them to pretty much nothing".

The Guardian - Sport

But otherwise Novara had limited them to few clear-cut chances.

The Guardian - Sport

The Islanders took 15 shots in the first period, but the Devils limited them to six shots after that.

The New York Times - Sports

The Mets could not figure out Marlins starter Carl Pavano, who limited them to six hits without walking a batter.

The New York Times - Sports

In previous competitions, he and Gavin had always appeared together, but the rules here limited them to a single presenter.

The New Yorker

Some veterans of DotOrg say Flu Trends is an example of how Google's engineering-centric approach frustrated and limited them.

The New York Times

One night after Mike Maroth limited them to one hit over nine shutout innings, the Yankees piled up 10 hits off Detroit starter Gary Knotts.

The New York Times - Sports

The late return of the Spanish contingent after the Confederations Cup limited them to cameo roles and Steven Gerrard missed the trip due to his court appearance.

The Guardian - Sport

While young actors can usefully employ their regional accent to get work, at one time it limited them later in their working life, Dyson explained.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "limited them", ensure the context clearly defines what limitations were imposed and why. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "limited them" without specifying what exactly was limited. For example, instead of saying "The budget limited them", specify "The budget limited them to only hiring two new employees".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limited them" functions as a verb phrase where "limited" is the transitive verb in the past tense, and "them" is the object pronoun. It indicates an action of imposing restrictions or constraints on a group or individuals, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment of correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "limited them" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that indicates restrictions or constraints placed upon a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a reliable phrase that is found across a variety of contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. To use the phrase effectively, ensure clarity and specificity in defining the limitations imposed. Alternatives such as "restricted them" or "constrained them" can be used depending on the nuance desired. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage, you can confidently incorporate "limited them" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

restricted them

Indicates a formal or imposed boundary, often by rules or laws.

constrained them

Implies an internal or external force that restricts freedom of action.

curtailed them

Suggests a reduction or cutting short of something.

hindered them

Focuses on the obstruction or delay of progress.

impeded them

Similar to hindered, but often suggests a more significant obstacle.

inhibited them

Implies a psychological or emotional barrier.

circumscribed them

Suggests a precise and definite boundary.

reigned them in

Indicates a controlling or restraining influence.

kept them in check

Focuses on maintaining control to prevent excess.

placed restrictions on them

More explicitly states the act of imposing limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "limited them" in a sentence?

You can use "limited them" to describe restrictions placed on someone or something. For example, "The new regulations "limited them" in their ability to expand their business".

What are some alternatives to "limited them"?

Some alternatives include "restricted them", "constrained them", or "curtailed them", depending on the specific context of the limitation.

Is it better to say "limited them" or "placed limitations on them"?

Both phrases are correct, but ""limited them"" is more concise. "Placed limitations on them" is more explicit and may be preferred when emphasis on the act of limiting is desired.

In what contexts is "limited them" most commonly used?

"Limited them" is frequently used in news reports, scientific articles, and business documents to describe restrictions imposed by rules, budgets, or other constraints.