off limits

USAGE SUMMARY

"off limits" is correct and usable in written English.
Generally, it is used to indicate that something or someplace is restricted, meaning that the public is not allowed to enter or access it. For example, "The shop was off limits after dark, so we had to leave before nightfall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

No, nothing's off limits.

The New Yorker

Rooney is probably off limits.

The New York Times

"He put nothing off limits.

The New York Times

Why is it off limits?

Independent

None are off limits.

The Guardian - Opinion

The subject is off limits.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

An off-limits topic.

The Economist

It's strictly off-limits.

The New York Times - Books

Fighting, though, is off-limits.

The Economist

And those are sort of off-limits.

The New Yorker

Manufacturing doubt remained firmly off-limits.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "off limits" to clearly and concisely indicate that something is restricted, whether it's a place, topic, or activity.

Common error

Avoid using "off limits" when you mean something is simply difficult or challenging. "Off limits" indicates a prohibition, not just a difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "off limits" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is restricted or prohibited. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is widely used and grammatically correct, as demonstrated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "off limits" is a commonly used adjective phrase that signifies that something is restricted or prohibited. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. Predominantly found in news and media, it effectively communicates boundaries and limitations across various contexts. While alternatives like "prohibited" or "restricted" exist, "off limits" offers a direct and easily understood way to express that something is not allowed. It's important to use it accurately, ensuring it reflects a genuine restriction rather than mere difficulty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of bounds

This alternative uses a different spatial metaphor to indicate restriction.

not allowed

A simple and direct way to express that something is not permitted.

not permitted

A formal way of saying something is not allowed.

prohibited

This is a more formal, single-word synonym emphasizing a ban or restriction.

restricted

Similar to prohibited, but can imply a degree of limitation rather than a complete ban.

forbidden

This word conveys a sense of strong disapproval or moral restriction.

verboten

A German loanword that directly translates to "forbidden" and often implies a strong prohibition.

inaccessible

Focuses on the inability to access something, whether due to physical or other barriers.

closed off

Suggests something is physically or metaphorically sealed or separated.

out of reach

Implies something is unattainable, either physically or figuratively.

FAQs

How can I use "off limits" in a sentence?

You can use "off limits" to describe places, topics, or actions that are restricted. For example, "That area is "off limits" to the public" or "Certain personal questions were "off limits" during the interview".

What's a similar phrase to "off limits"?

Alternatives to "off limits" include "prohibited", "restricted", and "out of bounds". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "off limits"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase "off limits" is valid and widely used in written English.

Can "off limits" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "off limits" can be used metaphorically to describe topics or areas of discussion that are restricted or not allowed. For example, "That subject is "off limits" during family gatherings".