limit

²limit

verb

Definition of LIMIT

transitive verb

1

: to assign certain limits to : prescribe <reserved the right to limit use of the land>

2

a : to restrict the bounds or limits of <the specialist can no longer limit himself to his specialty> b : to curtail or reduce in quantity or extent <we must limit the power of aggressors>

— lim·it·able \-mə-tə-bəl\ adjective

— lim·it·er noun

Examples of LIMIT

1. We need to find ways to limit expenses.
2. He tried to limit the damage to his reputation by blaming other people.
3. A factor limiting our country's economic performance is its lack of resources.
4. Our lack of money limits our options.
5. Because of our lack of money, we have to limit ourselves to fewer options.

First Known Use of LIMIT

14th century

Related to LIMIT

Synonyms: cap, circumscribe, confine, hold down, restrict

Antonyms: exceed

Related Words: bar, block, hamper, hinder, impede, obstruct; constrict, contract, lessen, narrow, pinch, squeeze, tighten; quell, repress, suppress; number; modify, qualify

Near Antonyms: broaden, expand, widen; overextend, overreach

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Synonym Discussion of LIMIT

limit, restrict, circumscribe, confine 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>. 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>. circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries <the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed>. confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering <our choices were confined by finances>.