past the limits

USAGE SUMMARY

"past the limits" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe when something surpasses the limits of what is expected or accepted, such as in the sentence: We went far past the limits of what was socially acceptable.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The gap between mainstream dance presentation and work that pushes past the limits of comfort seems to be growing larger.

The New York Times - Arts

But there was always the other side of Ewing, whose stubborn streak stretched well past the limits of pride.

The New York Times - Sports

Time and again, the N.S.A. has pushed past the limits that lawmakers thought they had imposed to prevent it from invading basic privacy, as guaranteed by the Constitution.

The New York Times

75015, metro: Porte de Vanves A tiny stroll past the limits of Paris is the city's most famous flea market: the Marché Aux Puces de Saint Ouen.

The Guardian - Travel

The music gives the electronic opiate a jolt, while the mass exposure of television lifts an artist past the limits of any single fan base.

The New York Times

It is another way of creating still greater economic and genetic concentration in an industry that has already pushed concentration past the limits of ethical and environmental acceptability.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Past this interchange, the speed limit increases to 55 mph and the road heads into Paterson.

Wikipedia

To prolong the life of roads and bridges, trucks hauling or spreading salt may now carry only 33 tons, whereas in the past the limit was 40 tons.

The New York Times

It's a politically popular arrangement, and the lure of paying a bit less to the government has been an incentive to stretch housing budgets up to, or past, the limit.

The New York Times

In the past, the limiting factor for AI training was a simple matter of GPU accessibility.

Forbes

William C. Thompson Jr. (D) has in the past suggested that the limits on sugary drinks would hurt small businesses.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "past the limits" to convey exceeding a defined or understood boundary, whether physical, ethical, or conceptual.

Common error

Avoid using "past the limits" when you simply mean reaching the maximum allowable or possible point. "Past the limits" implies exceeding that point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "past the limits" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify verbs and describe the extent or degree to which an action or state exceeds a defined boundary. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "past the limits" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to describe exceeding defined boundaries or thresholds. Ludwig AI affirms its proper usage in written English. It's frequently found in News & Media and Science, indicating its broad applicability. To enhance your writing, consider using alternatives like "beyond the boundaries" or "exceeding the threshold" for varied expression. Remember, "past the limits" implies surpassing a defined point, not merely reaching it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beyond the boundaries

Emphasizes exceeding defined borders or restrictions.

exceeding the threshold

Focuses on surpassing a specific level or point of change.

over the line

Implies crossing an acceptable boundary, often in a moral or ethical sense.

pushed too far

Indicates that something has been taken to an extreme, often resulting in negative consequences.

surpassing expectations

Highlights exceeding anticipated outcomes or achievements.

out of bounds

Suggests being outside of permissible or designated areas, literally or figuratively.

transcending limitations

Focuses on overcoming inherent constraints or restrictions.

going overboard

Implies excessive enthusiasm or behavior.

breaking the mold

Suggests defying conventional norms or standards.

defying constraints

Emphasizes resisting or ignoring imposed restrictions.

FAQs

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

You can use "past the limits" to describe situations where something exceeds a boundary or threshold. For example, "The athlete pushed himself past the limits of human endurance."

What's a good alternative to "past the limits"?

Alternatives include "beyond the boundaries", "exceeding the threshold", or "over the line", depending on the context.

Is "past the limit" or "past the limits" more correct?

"Past the limits" is generally preferred when referring to multiple or undefined boundaries. "Past the limit" can be used when referring to a singular, specific boundary.

What does it mean to push someone "past the limits"?

To push someone "past the limits" means to encourage or force them to exceed their capabilities, endurance, or acceptable behavior. It often implies a negative consequence.