limiting the scope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limiting the scope" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of narrowing down the focus or range of a project, study, or discussion. Example: "The committee is focused on limiting the scope of the project to ensure it can be completed within the given timeframe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are severely limiting the scope of their proposed solutions.

The New York Times

Councils were increasingly refocusing resources on targeted interventions, limiting the scope for universal provision.

The Guardian

This is practically worthless in terms of limiting the scope for deception.

The Guardian - Business

Deliberately limiting the scope of the words being recognised also improves reliability.

The Economist

"It was also about limiting the scope of the commissioner's authority.

The New York Times - Sports

Old loans weigh on scarce capital, limiting the scope for new ones.

The Economist

The Supreme Court's decision limiting the scope of the Americans With Disabilities Act sets a dangerous precedent.

The New York Times

Limiting the scope of his environment has broadened the range of ways he can contribute to it on his own.

The New Yorker

With the EU's "fiscal compact" and other rules limiting the scope of government assistance, innovative thinking is needed.

The Guardian - Business

"Even in context, this sentiment seems conveniently unimaginative, a rationale for limiting the scope of one's action," Caplan wrote.

The New Yorker

He contends that warm winter weather may have pulled some job creation forward, limiting the scope for further gains.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "limiting the scope", clearly define what boundaries you are setting and why. This adds clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "limiting the scope" without specifying what the scope is being limited to. This can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limiting the scope" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a subject, object, or part of a prepositional phrase. It describes the action of making something smaller or more restricted. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "limiting the scope" is a common and grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the act of reducing or restricting the extent of something. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts, implying a neutral and strategic approach to managing projects, investigations, or discussions. To use the phrase effectively, ensure you clearly define the boundaries you are setting and avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "restricting the scope" or "narrowing the focus" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

restricting the scope

Directly implies imposing limitations.

reducing the scope

Focuses on making the extent smaller.

constraining the scope

Emphasizes the imposition of restrictions.

decreasing the scope

Implies a gradual reduction in extent.

curbing the scope

Suggests a forceful reduction or restraint.

minimising the scope

Highlights the effort to reduce the extent to the smallest possible.

narrowing the focus

Shifts the emphasis to concentrating on a smaller area.

determining the scope

Focuses on establishing the boundaries rather than reducing them.

delineating the scope

Highlights defining the boundaries rather than reducing it.

identifying the scope

Concerns the act of discovering or recognizing the extent.

FAQs

How can I use "limiting the scope" in a sentence?

You can use "limiting the scope" to describe actions that reduce the extent of something. For example: "The project manager is "limiting the scope" of the initial phase to ensure timely delivery."

What is an alternative to "limiting the scope"?

Alternatives include "restricting the scope", "reducing the scope", or "narrowing the focus", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "limiting the scope" or "limit the scope"?

"Limiting the scope" (gerund form) is used to describe an ongoing action or characteristic, while "limit the scope" (imperative form) is a command or instruction. Example: "Consider "limiting the scope" of your investigation." versus "Limit the scope to these specific documents."

What's the difference between "limiting the scope" and "defining the scope"?

"Limiting the scope" implies a reduction or restriction, while "defining the scope" means setting clear boundaries or parameters. "Limiting the scope" focuses on reducing what's included, while defining it clarifies what is included.