on the limit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the limit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is at its maximum capacity or threshold. Example: "The car was pushed on the limit during the race, showcasing its full potential."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is a constant on the limit set since there is only one point at the limit set.  .

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

It's one thing to drive around the track but another to drive on the limit.

Forbes

Because we are always on the limit.

The New York Times - Sports

"He was right on the limit.

The Guardian - Sport

I felt OK, I wasn't on the limit.

The Guardian - Sport

"Everyone was on the limit on the final corner.

The Guardian - Sport

Abbott himself wrote on the limit of mandates in Opposition.

The Guardian

"I stayed on the ideal line, braking on the limit.

Independent

These four max out on the limit every year.

The New York Times

Where the iPhone 7 Plus is too wide, the Pixel XL is right on the limit.

The Guardian - Tech

"Racing cars are built on the limit, and sometimes they break.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the limit", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being limited. For example, "The car was driven on the limit of its capabilities."

Common error

Avoid using "on the limit" when you actually mean "over the limit". "On the limit" suggests being right at the edge, whereas "over the limit" implies exceeding it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the limit" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe how an action is performed. It indicates that something is done at the maximum extent or capability. Ludwig AI confirms this through its analysis of numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

46%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the limit" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adverbial phrase that denotes being at the maximum extent or capability of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is versatile, appearing in various contexts such as News & Media and Science. While generally neutral, its precise register depends on the specific context. To avoid confusion, ensure you're using it to mean 'at the edge' rather than 'over the edge'. By understanding its nuances and contexts, you can effectively integrate "on the limit" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the edge

This alternative suggests a position very close to the boundary or threshold of something.

at the brink

This phrase implies being on the verge of a significant or critical event or state.

at the threshold

This option highlights the point at which a certain effect is first observed or experienced.

close to the edge

Similar to "at the edge", this emphasizes proximity to a boundary.

near the breaking point

This phrase conveys a state of being close to failure or collapse.

pushing the boundaries

This suggests actively trying to extend the limits of what is possible or acceptable.

maxing out

This option implies reaching the maximum capacity or capability.

at maximum capacity

A more explicit way of stating that the limit has been reached.

on the verge of

This indicates being close to experiencing or achieving something.

approaching the limit

Suggests moving closer to a boundary or maximum.

FAQs

How can I use "on the limit" in a sentence?

You can use "on the limit" to describe a situation where something is at its maximum capacity or threshold. For instance, "The engine was running "on the limit" during the race."

What are some alternatives to saying "on the limit"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "at the edge", "at the threshold", or "close to the edge".

Is it correct to say "over the limit" instead of "on the limit"?

While both phrases are valid, they have different meanings. "On the limit" means at the maximum, while "over the limit" means exceeding the maximum allowed amount. Make sure to use them in appropriate contexts. For example, "He was driving "over the limit" after drinking alcohol".

What does "being on the limit" usually imply?

Being "on the limit" often implies that a system or entity is operating at its full potential, or is in a state of heightened risk or performance. It's the boundary before something is exceeded or compromised.