time limit
Definition
Noun: A fixed period of time during which a specific task, action, or process must be completed or concluded.
Usage
A "time limit" is a deadline or a constraint on duration. It is used to specify the maximum amount of time allowed for an activity, such as completing a test, submitting a form, or making a move in a game. It establishes a clear boundary for when something must be finished.
Examples
- The exam has a strict time limit of two hours.
- Please complete the application within the given time limit.
- The parking meter has a time limit of 30 minutes.
- The game's rules impose a time limit for each player's turn.
Advanced Usage
- "to set/impose a time limit": To establish or enforce a specific duration for an activity.
- The committee decided to set a time limit of 15 minutes for each presentation.
- "to work against/within a time limit": To operate with the pressure or constraint of a deadline.
- Journalists often have to work against a tight time limit to file their stories.
- "to exceed/run over the time limit": To go beyond the allotted period.
- Your speech exceeded the time limit by five minutes.
Variants and Related Words
- Time-limited (adj): Having a fixed duration or deadline.
- This is a time-limited offer, valid only until the end of the month.
- Deadline (n): The latest time or date by which something should be completed. (While similar, a "deadline" is often a specific point in time, whereas a "time limit" is a duration.)
- Time frame (n): A period of time during which something happens or is planned to happen.
Synonyms
- Deadline
- Time constraint
- Cut-off point
- Allotted time
Related Phrases
- Under a time limit: Operating with a specific duration constraint.
- We are working under a severe time limit to finish the project.
- Time is running out: An expression indicating that the remaining time within a limit is nearly exhausted.
- With only one minute left, time is running out for the team to score.
Noun
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a time period within which something must be done or completed
