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limit

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noun

1
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as in height
the most extreme or advanced point those bratty kids have pushed my patience to the limit

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word limit different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of limit are circumscribe, confine, and restrict. While all these words mean "to set bounds for," limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go.

visits are limited to 30 minutes

When could circumscribe be used to replace limit?

In some situations, the words circumscribe and limit are roughly equivalent. However, circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries.

the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed

When might confine be a better fit than limit?

While in some cases nearly identical to limit, confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering.

our choices were confined by finances

When can restrict be used instead of limit?

The words restrict and limit can be used in similar contexts, but restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary.

laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of limit
Verb
That means even adolescents should limit their intake of 100% juice to less than 1 cup per day. Katia Hetter, CNN, 13 Mar. 2025 Many stores are limiting how many eggs shoppers can buy and some restaurants have added temporary egg surcharges. Nathan Bomey, Axios, 13 Mar. 2025
Noun
How about working on real major problems to benefit all of Chicago? — Lee Berenbaum, Chicago The issues that affect us Perhaps the City Council should concern itself with issues that directly affect more residents than whether fur coats are sold within city limits. Chicago Tribune, 11 Mar. 2025 The governor, who signed two bills Thursday that shift $43 million outside of a budget already on pace to exceed the spending cap, is scrambling to comply with that constitutional limit before the fiscal year ends June 30. Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for limit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for limit
Verb
  • This safety by design approach moves beyond restricting access to focus on improving the platforms themselves.
    Abdulmalik Alluhidan, The Conversation, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Seasonal marketing doesn’t have to be restricted to only the big holiday season at the end of each year, which gives you lots of freedom in how to approach holidays that resonate with you and your customers.
    Carey Bringle, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Silversands Grand Anse Modern design and luxe amenities define Silversands Grand Anse, an intimate, upscale collection of 43 rooms and eight villas, complete with a spacious spa and spectacular dining.
    Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 9 Mar. 2025
  • Under Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman, the Space Force has defined a highly effective strategy; corresponding operational concepts and technologies; and a new training regimen to ensure U.S. equities in space are secured.
    David A. Deptula, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • But Trump’s order may face limitations short of an act of Congress, which has through the years tried to shield the journalistic entities from political influence.
    Ted Johnson, Deadline, 15 Mar. 2025
  • For example, physical limitations, a baby that is in absolute melt-down mode, or even a feeling of general and perhaps sudden unease at your surroundings (always go with your gut).
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 15 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The structure of its web varies throughout the year, with changes in its angle, height above the ground, line density and magnetic orientation, all influenced by seasonal shifts.
    Scott Travers, Forbes, 9 Mar. 2025
  • The stand aside, this monitor has ample tilt, height, and swivel adjustments at the ready.
    PCMAG, PCMAG, 9 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • His departure leaves the center depth chart standing with October additions Ben Brown and Lecitus Smith, 2023 draft choice Jake Andrews, as well as Cole Strange, a former starting left guard and No. 29 overall pick.
    Oliver Thomas, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
  • The Braves need to add some talent and depth at catcher with Murphy on the sidelines for the next few weeks.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The brand said the work is designed to bridge the legacy of rare craft practices passed down through generations at The Balvenie with a contemporary lens, creating an experience that hopes to redefine the boundaries of hospitality and design.
    Tianwei Zhang, WWD, 18 Mar. 2025
  • With that, Roth is quick to credit friends and fellow scare-mongers at the top of the 2000s such as Rob Zombie, James Wan and Darren Bousman for pushing the boundaries of guts, gore and terror.
    A.D. Amorosi, Variety, 18 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Limit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/limit. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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