Definition of limitationnext
1
as in limit
a real or imaginary point beyond which a person or thing cannot go the bridge has a weight limitation that bars heavy trucks from crossing it

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2
as in restriction
something that limits one's freedom of action or choice the state has some fairly strict limitations on the sale and use of alcoholic beverages

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3
as in constraint
the act or practice of keeping something (as an activity) within certain boundaries the limitation on the number of vehicles allowed on the island does not sit well with year-round residents

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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 limitation The district also considered limitations to remodeling or rebuilding. Alec Johnson, jsonline.com, 5 Feb. 2026 This definitional shift highlights BMI’s limitations as a measure of metabolic health. Bret Scher, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Feb. 2026 Conservative appeals courts have signaled skepticism of some trial judges’ rulings, with appellate courts throwing out injunctions as overly broad and vague, suggesting judicial restraint regarding the scope of limitations on executive immigration authority. Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026 Freeman acknowledged several limitations of the study, including the fact that researchers did not track changes in diet or olive oil consumption over time, noting that these constraints were also identified by the authors. Lily Hautau, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for limitation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for limitation
Noun
  • Stronger tools for parents, including limits on social media and a more responsive alert system, are important.
    Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 3 Feb. 2026
  • This limits silent data transfers when the app is not actively open.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Joining him in the back-to-back restriction club was Al Horford, who has played well recently and scored in double figures in three of his last four games.
    Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Quayle said that partially because of new restrictions on Newark flying, United will have aircraft available.
    Ted Reed, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • These environmental constraints are compounded by human impact.
    Outside, Outside, 3 Feb. 2026
  • The Clintons had been seeking to negotiate terms with Comer to avoid a contempt vote, including to introduce constraints to the duration and scope of questioning, but ultimately agreed to comply with all of Comer’s demands.
    Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 3 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Limitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/limitation. Accessed 8 Feb. 2026.

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