Definition

Noun: 1. The maximum possible amount, value, or degree: The highest point or level that is allowed, possible, or acceptable. 2. A boundary or restriction on the upper side: The limit that defines the top or northernmost extent of something.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The contract sets an upper limit of $10,000 for expenses.
  • There is an upper limit to how much weight this bridge can hold.
  • Scientists are trying to determine the upper limit of human endurance.

Advanced Usage

• "To reach/push the upper limit": To attain or test the maximum possible level.
  • The new engine design pushes the upper limit of fuel efficiency.
• "To set/establish an upper limit": To define or impose a maximum.
  • The government set an upper limit on interest rates.

Variants and Related Words

• Ceiling (n): An upper limit, typically set on prices, wages, or spending.
  • The budget has a strict ceiling.
• Maximum (n): The greatest or highest amount possible or attained.
  • This ticket is valid for a maximum of three days.
• Cap (n): An upper limit imposed on something, such as spending or production.
  • They placed a cap on annual tuition increases.

Synonyms

• Maximum
• Ceiling
• Cap
• Utmost
• Extreme

Antonyms

• Lower limit
• Minimum
• Floor

Related Phrases

• Upper bound: A term often used in mathematics and statistics to denote a value that is greater than or equal to every element in a set.
  • The calculated figure serves as an upper bound for our estimates.

Noun

1. the limit on the upper (or northernmost) side of something
2. the largest possible quantity