this is the limit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is the limit" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that a certain situation or behavior has reached an unacceptable boundary or maximum threshold. Example: "After hearing the constant complaints, I finally decided that this is the limit; I can't tolerate this behavior any longer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

This is the limit.

The Guardian - Sport

"Sadly this is the limit.

The Guardian

This is the limit, he cannot get closer.

The New Yorker

"This is the limit of our forces, right here, absolutely".

The New York Times

But Pugh agrees that if this is the limit of his impact, the swim will have failed in its ambition.

The Guardian

"This is the limit," wrote a pro-Kremlin blogger, using a term unsuitable for a family newspaper.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"This is the limits of our tolerance and that's why there is a cap in place.

The Guardian - Business

Each time they reached another subject, it was overruled and this was the limit of what they were investigating.

Huffington Post

This is the superparamagnetic limit.

The Economist

This is the tenure limit for the Wells Fargo board.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This is the arbitrary limit above which scientists believe global temperature rise will be "dangerous".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is the limit", ensure the context clearly establishes what boundary has been reached and why it's unacceptable.

Common error

While "this is the limit" is acceptable, overusing it, especially in very casual settings, can sound overly dramatic or stiff. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "I've had enough" or "I can't take it anymore" in informal conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is the limit" functions as a declarative statement that indicates a boundary or threshold has been reached. It often expresses a point of intolerance or the maximum extent something can go. As supported by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

36%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is the limit" serves as a clear declaration that a boundary has been reached, often expressing intolerance or finality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its presence across various contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge. While relatively uncommon, it's generally safe to use with caution on informal environments as it can sound a bit strong. It's important to use the phrase when the point you are trying to make is a limit that has been exceeded.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is the breaking point

Emphasizes the moment when something can no longer be tolerated or endured.

this is as far as it goes

Indicates that something will not progress any further.

this is the final straw

Highlights the last in a series of actions that leads to a negative outcome.

this is where I draw the line

Focuses on setting a personal boundary or limit.

this is the end of the line

Suggests that a process or situation has reached its conclusion.

this is the absolute maximum

Stresses that something has reached its highest possible extent.

this is the ultimate threshold

Highlights a final boundary or degree.

this is the cutoff point

Implies a specific point at which something stops or is no longer valid.

this is the last permissible action

Focuses on the idea that no further actions are acceptable.

this is the point of no return

Indicates a critical juncture beyond which there is no turning back.

FAQs

How can I use "this is the limit" in a sentence?

Use "this is the limit" to express that a boundary has been reached and cannot be surpassed. For example, "After repeated offenses, I've decided "this is the limit"; I will not tolerate this behavior any longer."

What can I say instead of "this is the limit"?

You can use alternatives like "this is the breaking point", "this is as far as it goes", or "this is the final straw" depending on the context.

Is "this is the limit" formal or informal?

"This is the limit" falls somewhere in between formal and informal. While usable in news and media, more casual alternatives might be better suited for informal settings, while more formal options can be appropriate in professional contexts.

What's the difference between "this is the limit" and "this is the boundary"?

While both indicate a stopping point, "this is the limit" often implies a point of intolerance or an unacceptable degree, whereas "this is the boundary" /s/this+is+the+boundary is more neutral and simply denotes a line or edge. "This is the limit" suggests more emotion.