limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing boundaries, restrictions, or constraints in various contexts, such as personal, professional, or technical situations. Example: "We need to set clear limits on the project budget to avoid overspending."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nothing excludes or limits GNMA's liability for personal injury or death due to its negligence.

The Guardian

But the conflict showed the limits of social networks when you have two antagonistic societies at war with each other.

The Guardian - Opinion

The report says 2014 was a very demanding year in which MSF was stretched way beyond its limits.

The Guardian

Many African presidents have tried to stay in power by rewriting their countries' constitutions to lose the limits on presidential terms.

The Guardian

It is time for an honest discussion about the role and limits of electoral politics for ethnic minority communities in Britain.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only today!" From then on, Australia played with a physicality that bordered the limits of acceptability.

The Guardian - Sport

During rehearsals, he's careful to insist that, within the limits of period etiquette, his courtiers and peasants behave like real individuals, rather than ballet ciphers.

The Guardian

Privacy International said : "All internet and telephone communications, without meaningful limits, are being collected, stored and analysed by the security and intelligence services, regardless of any grounds for suspicion.

The Guardian

Geschwindigkeitsbeschränkungen, all 30 letters of it: a very big word for a fairly simple idea (it means speed limits).

The Guardian

"If I find myself in a difficult position – I hope I don't – that pushes me beyond the limits [of his mandate] I will resort to the people, obviously not through elections but with a referendum.

The Guardian - Business

Starving, disabled children are the ultimate symbol of a cuts agenda that has no limits or conscience.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "limits", clearly define what is being limited and the context in which the limits apply to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "limits" without specifying what is being limited. For instance, instead of saying "There are limits", specify "There are limits to the budget" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "limits" is as a noun, often used to denote boundaries, restrictions, or constraints. It can also function as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense of "limit". Ludwig AI confirms its broad usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "limits" functions primarily as a noun referring to boundaries or restrictions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and sees very common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, formal business settings, and scientific discussions. When using "limits", ensure clarity by specifying what is being limited. Alternatives like "boundaries", "restrictions", and "constraints" can offer nuanced meaning. While generally neutral, its formality leans away from casual conversation. The provided examples showcase its versatile application, making it a valuable term for precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

boundaries

Focuses on the demarcation aspect, emphasizing the edge or border.

restrictions

Highlights the act of restraining or controlling something.

constraints

Emphasizes limitations or restrictions that hinder or prevent something.

bounds

Similar to boundaries, but can also imply a sense of freedom within defined areas.

parameters

Refers to the specific rules or limits that define something.

ceilings

Implies an upper limit or maximum value.

maximums

Directly denotes the highest permissible quantity or degree.

extents

Refers to the degree or scope to which something reaches.

qualifications

Highlights the conditions or requirements that must be met.

provisions

Focuses on specific conditions or arrangements.

FAQs

How can I use "limits" in a sentence?

You can use "limits" to refer to restrictions or boundaries, such as "There are "limits" to what we can achieve with the current budget" or "The project exceeded its "limits"".

What are some synonyms for "limits"?

Alternatives to "limits" include "boundaries", "restrictions", "constraints", or "bounds", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "limits" or "limitations"?

Both "limits" and "limitations" can be used, but "limits" often refers to defined boundaries, while "limitations" implies inherent shortcomings or weaknesses. Choose the word that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "limits" and "restrictions"?

"Limits" typically refer to a defined maximum or boundary, while "restrictions" are more about rules or conditions that constrain actions or behaviors. They are similar but not always interchangeable.