limits of usefulness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limits of usefulness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the boundaries or constraints of how effective or beneficial something is in a particular context. Example: "While this tool is effective, we must recognize the limits of usefulness when applied to complex problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The limits of usefulness of prescreens for product development, regulatory use, and mechanistic investigations need to be clearly defined.

Environmental Health Perspectives

In fact, some top modelers say even the most powerful simulations can be pushed only so far before they reach limits of usefulness.

The New York Times - Science

Saying "I told you so" has reached its limits of usefulness – now we need to start explaining exactly how the party would respond to the looming recession in simple, understandable terms.

The Guardian - Opinion

Given that this scenario required in itself the largest overall installed capacity (Table 2), and is the one that responds strongest to extra production potential, these findings illustrate the limits of usefulness of large amounts of photovoltaics in the German electricity system.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Fuel duty is becoming one of those taxes, like council tax, that is now at the limit of usefulness to government.

The Guardian

Many often-quoted studies interpret data to claim that about 20 grams of protein per meal is the limit of usefulness, and more at one time offers no evidence of increased muscle gain or performance improvement.

Huffington Post

These are honest, helpless superlatives, the language pressed right up against the limits of its usefulness.

The New Yorker

Although this is a rather succinct definition it effectively sets the limits of the usefulness of Darwin's theory.

The Guardian - Opinion

The tool the Fed usually fights recessions with had reached the limits of its usefulness.

The New York Times - Magazine

Previous work on the pipe flow paradigm is reviewed, and the limits of its usefulness are exposed.

Journal of Non-Newtonian Fluid Mechanics

The Bland-Altman plot displays an agreement within the limits of clinical usefulness, with the mean of differences always being less than 20%.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the "limits of usefulness", be specific about the context. Clearly state what factors reduce effectiveness in those particular situations.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the "limits of usefulness" without providing evidence or a balanced perspective. Acknowledge potential benefits alongside limitations for a more credible argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limits of usefulness" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the boundaries within which something remains effective or beneficial. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase is used to define the constraints of various tools, methods, or concepts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "limits of usefulness" is a noun phrase used to describe the point at which something ceases to be effective or beneficial. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and most commonly found in scientific and news contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about the context and avoid overstating limitations without evidence. Alternative ways to express this concept include "degree of utility" or "range of applicability". The phrase helps to provide a balanced assessment and guide decision-making by acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

degree of utility

Focuses on the extent to which something is useful, rather than its limitations.

range of applicability

Highlights the scope within which something is applicable, differing from usefulness.

scope of effectiveness

Emphasizes the extent to which something achieves a desired outcome.

extent of serviceability

Refers to the degree to which something is serviceable or functional.

practical constraints

Shifts focus to the limitations imposed by practical considerations.

functional boundaries

Focuses on the boundaries of what something can functionally achieve.

application ceiling

Describes the maximum level or point at which something can be applied effectively.

effective parameters

Concentrates on the parameters within which something is effective, not necessarily its limits.

degree of functionality

Highlights the extent to which something performs its intended function.

operating threshold

Refers to the minimum or maximum value for proper operation.

FAQs

How can I identify the "limits of usefulness" of a tool?

Consider its performance in various scenarios, paying attention to situations where its effectiveness diminishes. Look for situations where alternative tools or methods might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "limits of applicability" and "limits of usefulness"?

"Limits of applicability" refer to the range of situations where something can be applied, while "limits of usefulness" refer to the point where it stops being effective or beneficial even if it's applicable.

How do I discuss the "limits of usefulness" without being overly negative?

Frame the discussion as an objective assessment of strengths and weaknesses. Acknowledge the benefits in certain contexts while highlighting the need for alternative approaches in others. For example: while the tool is effective, we must recognize the limits of usefulness when applied to complex problems.

What are some synonyms for "degree of utility" instead of "limits of usefulness"?

Depending on the context, you can use "degree of utility", "range of applicability", or "scope of effectiveness".