limits of law

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limits of law" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to discuss the boundaries or constraints imposed by legal frameworks or regulations. Example: "The limits of law often challenge our understanding of justice and morality in society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It paints a picture of an agency skirting the limits of law and morality in pursuit of its mission.

The Economist

But it is not unique to South Africa: legal scholars and political scientists the world over bemoan the limits of law as an instrument of change.

The New York Times

His ability to mislead everyone around him "illustrates the limits of law, not the need for more of it".Regulators are not the impartial, omniscient judges that legislation so often presumes.

The Economist

But his concession to Ponting's point of view is the first indication that cricket's world governing body might decide to crack down on the way teams stretch the limits of law.

The Guardian - Sport

Mohan Bhagwat, leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh, a Hindu paramilitary organisation, said its members would "be striving to see that there will be a grand Ram temple on that site" but their response would "be within the limits of law and constitution".

The Guardian

In other words, if the intelligence agencies are going to push the limits of law, policy, and technology, with minimal oversight — if they're going to use the sidelines, in the football metaphor of the book's title — they need to hold themselves accountable.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Within the limits of laws and ethical codes governing health and employment records, Times managers have described documents for the reporting team.

The New York Times

He said stories in publications including the Guardian, the New York Times, the Washington Post and Der Spiegel had prompted much-needed debate about the scale of intelligence activities and exposed the limits of laws drawn up in the pre-internet era.

BBC

Reflecting her own experience, former law clerks say, she tended to view the scope of federal civil rights protections as broadly as possible within the limits of the law, said Jenny Rivera, a former law clerk for Judge Sotomayor.

The New York Times

They may be in government hands -- in recently privatized companies, such holdings may still be huge -- or they may be off limits because of laws limiting foreign ownership.

The New York Times

In fact the drawing of an analogy between the regulation of slavery and abortion is a popular move in Natural Law writing on the limits of the law.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing ethical considerations, use "limits of law" to highlight situations where actions, while technically legal, may still be morally questionable.

Common error

Avoid using "limits of law" solely in negative contexts. Remember that laws also enable and protect, so use the phrase to discuss both restrictions and safeguards.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limits of law" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the inherent boundaries or restrictions within a legal system. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "limits of law" is used to denote the restrictions and boundaries inherent in legal systems. As verified by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and finds usage across a spectrum of contexts from neutral news reports to formal academic discussions. While not overwhelmingly common, its usage is consistent and appropriate. Recognizing the "limits of law" is crucial for informed discussions about legal ethics, policy, and reform. Considering alternatives like "bounds of law" or "scope of law" can add nuance to your writing. By understanding its function, purpose, and common errors, writers can effectively use "limits of law" to convey complex legal concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bounds of law

Focuses on the restricting parameters or boundaries within which the law operates.

legal constraints

Emphasizes the restrictions and limitations imposed by legal regulations.

scope of law

Highlights the extent and range of the law's applicability.

boundaries of legality

Refers to the border between what is legal and what is not.

extent of legal authority

Indicates the degree and reach of the power granted by law.

confines of the legal system

Underscores the restrictions inherent within the legal system's structure.

restrictions of legal power

Highlights the specific limitations on the use of legal authority.

parameters of legal action

Focuses on the defining factors that determine the permissibility of legal actions.

permissible legal boundaries

Emphasizes the acceptable and allowed limits within the legal framework.

the reach of law

Highlights the maximum influence or effect that the law can exert.

FAQs

How can I use "limits of law" in a sentence?

You can use "limits of law" to discuss ethical dilemmas, legal loopholes, or the extent to which laws can govern certain behaviors. For example, "The debate centers on whether the action, though within the "limits of law", is morally justifiable."

What are some alternatives to "limits of law"?

Some alternatives include "bounds of law", "legal constraints", or "scope of law", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "limits of law" or "limits of the law"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "limits of law" is generally preferred when discussing the concept in a broad, general sense. "Limits of the law" might be used when referring to specific legislation or a particular legal system.

What's the difference between "limits of law" and "rule of law"?

"Rule of law" refers to the principle that everyone is subject to and accountable under the law, whereas "limits of law" refers to the constraints and boundaries within which the law operates. The rule of law ensures fairness, while the "limits of law" acknowledge its inherent restrictions.