outstripped the limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outstripped the limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something has exceeded or surpassed established boundaries or constraints. Example: "The rapid growth of technology has outstripped the limits of our current understanding and regulations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But, over the past several years, enthusiasm has often outstripped the limits of what current science can really tell us, and the field has given rise to pop neuroscience, which attempts to explain practically everything about human behavior and culture through the brain and its functions.

The New Yorker

Despite the fact that extremely short wavelength ultraviolet light is employed in modern fabs, engineers think that it will be impossible to sculpt features smaller than 100 nanometres (billionths of a metre) across in this way.When Dr Chou and his colleagues examined their results, however, they found that their technique outstripped the limits of photolithography by a full order of magnitude.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Brian J. Chapelle, a partner in Potomac Partners in Washington, a consulting firm to the mortgage industry, said that F.H.A. loans have been largely ignored in the New York area because house prices have outstripped the loan limits.

The New York Times

Sadly, they cannot ultimately outstrip the limitations of their material.

Los Angeles Times

Still, with more than 36,000 already sold, demand is likely to outstrip the production limit of 60,000 a year.

The New York Times

French officials may want to lend a hand to the economy, but the French budget deficit is perilously close to outstripping the 3percentt limit set by European rules.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, the complexity of the scheme has now far outstripped the recording technology used, which affects both current usability and limits future enhancements.

Breast Cancer Research

It's not so much that he's convinced she had an affair with Jagger — her third Stone!––as that she outstripped Keith's limits in the decadence department.

The New Yorker

But the aviators outstripped the strippers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Reality continually outstripped the most active imaginations.

The New York Times

Demand outstripped the company's manufacturing capacity.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "outstripped the limits", ensure the subject's advancement or growth is clearly defined and that the exceeded limits are well-established for context.

Common error

Avoid using "outstripped the limits" when the 'limits' are vague or not clearly defined, as this weakens the impact of the phrase. Be specific about what boundaries have been surpassed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outstripped the limits" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe a situation where something has surpassed or exceeded previously established boundaries or constraints. As seen in the examples Ludwig provides, it often implies a significant advancement or unexpected outcome. The phrase works to show something has gone beyond what was previously possible or expected.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "outstripped the limits" effectively conveys exceeding established boundaries, often implying significant advancement or unexpected outcomes. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and finds common usage in news and scientific contexts, maintaining a formal to neutral tone. While alternatives like "exceeded the boundaries" or "surpassed the constraints" offer similar meanings, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to emphasize. Remember to clearly define what boundaries are being exceeded for maximum impact. The usage examples shown by Ludwig confirm the phrase's appropriateness across diverse reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exceeded the boundaries

Focuses on surpassing defined boundaries or borders.

surpassed the constraints

Emphasizes overcoming restrictions or limitations.

overcame the limitations

Highlights the act of successfully dealing with limitations.

transcended the boundaries

Suggests rising above or going beyond typical limits.

went beyond the confines

Implies moving outside of set or expected parameters.

exceeded the scope

Focuses on going beyond the defined extent or range.

outpaced the restrictions

Emphasizes moving faster than the set restrictions allow.

overstepped the bounds

Suggests exceeding acceptable limits or norms.

broke the mold

Implies defying conventional limitations or expectations.

pushed the envelope

Focuses on stretching the limits of what is possible or acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "outstripped the limits" in a sentence?

Use "outstripped the limits" to describe when something has exceeded its expected or previously known boundaries. For instance, "Technological advancements have "outstripped the limits" of our current infrastructure".

What are some alternatives to "outstripped the limits"?

Alternatives include "exceeded the boundaries", "surpassed the constraints", or "transcended the boundaries". The best choice depends on the specific context and what you want to emphasize.

What does it mean when something "outstripped the limits"?

When something "outstripped the limits", it means it has gone beyond or exceeded previously established boundaries, constraints, or capabilities. This often implies significant progress or advancement.

Which is more appropriate, "outstripped the limits" or "exceeded expectations"?

"Outstripped the limits" focuses on surpassing boundaries, while "exceeded expectations" highlights going beyond what was anticipated. The choice depends on whether you're emphasizing boundaries or anticipations.