set some limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set some limits" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the need to establish boundaries or restrictions in various contexts, such as personal behavior, work policies, or relationships. Example: "In order to maintain a healthy work-life balance, it's important to set some limits on how many hours you work each week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Yet Cooper has set some limits to the proceedings.

The New Yorker

Even my children say, "Dad, you're old; set some limits".

The Guardian - Film

True to his instincts as a businessman, Mr. Albaugh set some limits on his acquisitions.

The New York Times

The system didn't always work, but it did set some limits.

The New York Times

During this time, set some limits for how much time and energy you will put into trying to help him.

Columbia University

"If I don't set some limits," Barat admits, "I just end up getting abused in the pub".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

As I was told by David Nirenberg, a University of Chicago history professor, the local bigwigs in medieval Spain often tried to set some limit to anti-Jewish violence in holy week by putting Christian guards on Jewish quarters, an arrangement for which the Jews, in a kind of protection racket, were made to pay.

The Economist

Managing 600 hours of on-demand video is resource intensive, so HBO has to set some limit.

TechCrunch

The action facility in the eclipse can also be used to set some limit on rate, pressure or time, after which injection starts or paused/stopped automatically, at the specified limit.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

I mean, what do you think of setting some limits on the activity of the Justices?

The New Yorker

I hope that President Obama and Congress will consider setting some limits.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set some limits", be specific about what those limits are and why they are necessary to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid setting limits that are too vague or general, as they can be easily misinterpreted or circumvented. Clearly defined boundaries are more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set some limits" functions as a directive, commonly used to advise or instruct someone to establish boundaries. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse contexts, from personal habits to legal regulations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

18%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set some limits" serves as a directive to establish boundaries in various contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse domains, including news, academia, and general discourse. While it isn't excessively frequent, its versatility makes it a valuable tool for recommending restraint or control. Consider clarifying the specific nature of the limits to avoid ambiguity, and be mindful of the specific nature of limits to be set to increase effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

define some boundaries

Focuses on clarifying the extent or scope of acceptable behavior or actions.

set parameters

Focuses on defining the scope or range within which something is allowed.

impose certain restrictions

Highlights the act of enforcing limitations.

place some controls

Implies regulating or managing something through specific measures.

establish certain constraints

Emphasizes formal imposition of restrictions.

specify particular limitations

Stresses the detailed and precise nature of the restrictions.

draw a line

Idiomatic and informal, suggesting a clear point beyond which something is unacceptable.

formulate constraints

Highlights the structured creation of boundaries.

institute a few regulations

Highlights the formal implementation of rules.

put some curbs

Informal, suggesting a reduction or restraint on something.

FAQs

What does "set some limits" mean?

The phrase "set some limits" means to establish boundaries or restrictions, defining what is acceptable or permissible in a given situation.

How can I use "set some limits" in a sentence?

You might say, "It's important to "set some limits" on screen time for children" or "The company needs to "set some limits" on spending for this project."

What are some alternatives to "set some limits"?

You can use alternatives like "define some boundaries", "impose certain restrictions", or "establish certain constraints" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to "set some limits"?

It's appropriate to "set some limits" when you need to control behavior, manage resources, or protect well-being. This can be in personal relationships, professional settings, or societal regulations.