Meaning & use
limits
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“limits” is a form of “limit”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
nounplural
The greatest or smallest amount of something that is allowed or possible.
Grammar: Used as a plural noun; the singular is 'limit'.
Patterns
- limits of something
- within limits
- beyond the limits
The speed limits on this road change during rush hour.
There are strict limits on how much you can withdraw each day.
We must work within the limits of our budget.
nounplural
The outer edges or boundaries of an area or place.
Grammar: Often used with 'of' to show what area is being talked about.
Patterns
- city limits
- limits of something
The city limits extend several miles to the north.
They built a fence along the limits of their property.
The national park has clear limits marked on the map.
nounpluralmathematicstechnical
In mathematics, the value that a function or sequence approaches as the input or index gets closer to a certain point.
Grammar: A technical term; usually used in the plural or with 'limit'.
Patterns
- limits of a function
- limits at infinity
In calculus, we study the limits of functions as x approaches a value.
The limits of this sequence help us understand its long-term behavior.
Finding limits is a key skill in first-year calculus.
Word forms
| singular | limit |
|---|
Common combinations
- within limits
- You can spend money within limits set by the committee.
- beyond the limits
- His behavior went beyond the limits of what is acceptable.
- city limits
- The accident happened just outside the city limits.
- push the limits
- Athletes often push the limits of human endurance.
- speed limits
- Always obey the speed limits when driving.
Synonyms and how they differ
- boundaries
- Refers to dividing lines; 'limits' often suggests a maximum allowed amount, while 'boundaries' are more about physical or conceptual edges.
- restrictions
- Focuses on rules that control what you can do; 'limits' can be about amounts or extents, not just rules.
- caps
- Informal; used for upper limits, especially in money or numbers, e.g., 'a cap on spending'.
Word family
- limit noun
- The singular form, meaning a single point or amount that is not to be exceeded.
- limit verb
- To set a maximum amount or restrict something.
- limited adjective
- Restricted in size, amount, or extent.
- limitation noun
- A rule or condition that limits what is possible.
Practice
Choose the correct word: The teacher said we must work within the ___ of the assignment.
Choose one answer.
The phrase 'within the limits of' is a fixed expression using the plural noun. 'Limit' (singular) would not fit because the phrase requires the plural form. 'Limiting' is a verb form, and 'limited' is an adjective, so neither fits grammatically.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “limits”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.