Definition

1. Noun:
   • An act of limiting or restricting: The process of setting boundaries or constraints on something, often by regulation or rule.
   • A restriction or limiting condition: A specific rule, factor, or circumstance that restricts what is possible or allowed.
   • The quality of being limited or restricted: The inherent state of having bounds or not being infinite.
   • A principle that limits the extent of something: A fundamental rule or law that defines a boundary.

Examples of Usage

• As a restriction or condition:
  • The main limitation of the study was its small sample size.
  • There is a limitation on the number of guests you can bring.
• As the act of limiting:
  • The limitation of carbon emissions is crucial for the environment.
• Referring to a shortcoming:
  • We must acknowledge the limitations of this technology.
• In a legal context:
  • The lawsuit was dismissed because it was filed after the statute of limitations.

Advanced Usage

• "within limitations": to a certain extent, with some restrictions.
  • You can decorate the office, within limitations.
• "limitation period" (Legal): the specific time frame within which legal action must be initiated.
  • The contract specifies a one-year limitation period for any claims.

Variants and Related Words

• Limit (n/v): The point or edge beyond which something does not or may not extend; to set a limit on.
  • There is a speed limit on this road.
• Limited (adj): Restricted in size, amount, or extent; not great or abundant.
  • We have a limited budget for this project.
• Limitless (adj): Without end, limit, or boundary.
  • The possibilities seem limitless.

Synonyms

• Restriction: A limiting condition or measure.
• Constraint: A limitation or restriction.
• Drawback: A feature that renders something less acceptable; a disadvantage.
• Curb: A check or restraint on something.

Related Phrases

• Statute of limitations: A law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated.
  • The statute of limitations for that crime has expired.

Related Idioms

• Know one's limitations: To be aware of what one cannot do or what one is not good at.
  • A good leader knows his limitations and delegates accordingly.

Noun

1. an act of limiting or restricting (as by regulation)
2. (law) a time period after which suits cannot be brought
   • statute of limitations
3. the greatest amount of something that is possible or allowed
   • there are limits on the amount you can bet
   • it is growing rapidly with no limitation in sight
4. the quality of being limited or restricted
   • it is a good plan but it has serious limitations
5. a principle that limits the extent of something
   • I am willing to accept certain restrictions on my movements