stretch the limits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stretch the limits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing pushing boundaries or challenging existing constraints in various contexts, such as creativity, performance, or personal growth. Example: "In order to innovate, we must be willing to stretch the limits of our imagination and explore new possibilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The object is to amaze and appal, to stretch the limits of the child's imagination.

The Guardian - Books

And to the ways that architects who understand construction can stretch the limits of a low budget.

The New York Times

If some of the political analogies in this collection of essays stretch the limits of hope, they yield acute insights.

The New Yorker

Such numbers, however, cannot measure the impact of Mr. Willes's effort to stretch the limits of the possible.

The New York Times

Then, Dr. Gammon said, it can stretch the limits of science to try to find an association.

The New York Times

Missing building blocks are then sometimes inferred to be products of primitive biosynthesis, which can stretch the limits of plausibility.

Nature

For most of his career, mechanical and aerospace engineering professor Szymon Suckewer has built high-powered devices that stretch the limits of laser technology.

Princeton University

I focus on how these works stretch the limits of traditional vocal epistemology and, in turn, engage the bodies of listeners.

Columbia University

Junichiro Koizumi, Japan's prime minister, views America's plea to send troops to Iraq as a chance to stretch the limits that have long constrained Japan's defence policy.

The Economist

There are proper uses for WRT54G, and there are some that stretch the limits so far that they are not practical.

Linksys WRT54G Ultimate Hacking

From the beginning, Ms. O'Donnell has tried to stretch the limits of the traditional woman's magazine, with more emphasis on real-life problems, including her own.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stretch the limits" when you want to emphasize pushing beyond current capabilities or boundaries in a particular field or activity. For example, "Scientists are constantly working to stretch the limits of human knowledge."

Common error

Avoid using "stretch the limits" when a more nuanced phrase like "optimize performance" or "improve efficiency" is more appropriate. The phrase implies pushing boundaries, not simply making improvements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stretch the limits" primarily functions as a verb phrase used to describe the action of pushing beyond existing boundaries or capabilities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, supported by numerous examples in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stretch the limits" is a versatile and widely used expression to convey the act of exceeding current capabilities or boundaries. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and applicable across diverse contexts, from news and media to academia and science. While phrases like "extend the boundaries" or "push the envelope" can serve as alternatives, "stretch the limits" specifically emphasizes a significant expansion or challenge to existing constraints. Remembering to use it when the context genuinely involves pushing beyond established capabilities ensures clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extend the boundaries

Emphasizes expanding the scope or range of something, often used in a more literal sense.

push the envelope

Focuses on innovation and exceeding established norms, often in creative or technological fields.

test the boundaries

Highlights the act of experimenting to discover the extent of what's possible or acceptable.

challenge the limitations

Suggests a proactive effort to overcome obstacles or constraints.

exceed expectations

Implies surpassing anticipated outcomes or performance levels.

break new ground

Conveys the idea of pioneering or making unprecedented advancements.

defy convention

Indicates a deliberate departure from established norms and practices.

transcend limitations

Suggests rising above constraints or restrictions, often in a more abstract or philosophical context.

outstrip the possibilities

Focuses on performing better than expected

push the frontiers

Highlights exploring a new area or territory.

FAQs

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

You can use "stretch the limits" to describe pushing boundaries or exceeding current capabilities. For instance, "The new technology allows us to stretch the limits of what's possible in medical research."

What is a synonym for "stretch the limits"?

Alternatives for "stretch the limits" include "extend the boundaries", "push the envelope", or "test the boundaries", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "stretching the limits"?

Yes, "stretching the limits" is a correct and usable gerund form of the phrase. For example, "Stretching the limits of our endurance is essential for athletic training."

What's the difference between "stretch the limits" and "extend the limits"?

While both phrases are similar, "stretch the limits" often implies a greater degree of effort and a more significant expansion of boundaries compared to simply "extend the limits".