were limited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'were limited' is correct and usable in written English.
For example, you could use it in the sentence, "We were limited in our choices due to the limited supplies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We were limited.

The New York Times

Disappointments were limited.

The New York Times

Escape routes were limited.

The Economist

Smith's options were limited.

The New York Times - Sports

Life's options were limited.

The Guardian

The results were limited.

The New York Times

Japan's options were limited.

The Guardian

American casualties were limited.

The New York Times

The options were limited.

The New York Times

The objectives were limited.

The Guardian - Opinion

Her options were limited.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were limited", ensure the context clearly indicates what was limited and by what means. For example, "Resources were limited due to budget cuts" provides a complete understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "were limited" without specifying what was limited or the cause of the limitation. A vague statement like "Opportunities were limited" lacks clarity. Instead, specify "Job opportunities were limited due to the economic downturn."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were limited" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject experienced a restriction or constraint. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in contexts where options, resources, or opportunities were not freely available.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were limited" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating restriction or constraint. It is grammatically correct and very commonly used, as affirmed by Ludwig, across diverse contexts including news, science, and encyclopedias. The phrase conveys a lack of freedom or range, often explaining why certain outcomes were not possible. While versatile, clarity is key: specify what was limited and by what cause to avoid vagueness. Related phrases include "were restricted" and "were constrained". The phrase's neutral register and high frequency make it a valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were constrained

Emphasizes restriction or compulsion by external forces.

were restricted

Highlights the imposition of rules or boundaries.

were curtailed

Focuses on the reduction or cutting short of something.

were diminished

Indicates a reduction in size, extent, or importance.

were reduced

Highlights a decrease in quantity, size, or extent.

were scarce

Emphasizes the rarity or insufficient availability of something.

were few

Indicates a small number or quantity.

were in short supply

Focuses on the lack of sufficient quantity or availability.

were bounded

Implies a clear limit or boundary.

were checked

Highlights the action of controlling or restraining.

FAQs

How can I use "were limited" in a sentence?

The phrase "were limited" is used to indicate that something was restricted or constrained. For example, "Our resources "were limited" due to the budget cuts" or "The choices "were limited" by the availability of materials".

What can I say instead of "were limited"?

You can use alternatives such as "were restricted", "were constrained", or "were scarce" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "were limited" or "was limited"?

"Were limited" is used with plural subjects, while "was limited" is used with singular subjects. For example, "Opportunities were limited" (plural) versus "Opportunity was limited" (singular).

What is the difference between "were limited" and "had limits"?

"Were limited" describes a state of being restricted. "Had limits" emphasizes the existence of boundaries or constraints. For example, "Their options "were limited" due to the circumstances" versus "The project had limits on its scope".