limit 1 of 2

Definition of limitnext

limit

2 of 2

noun

1
2
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

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
The league saw firsthand how quickly its popularity dipped last season when Clark missed time with multiple injuries, ultimately limiting her to just 13 games. Bobby Burack Outkick, FOXNews.com, 22 Apr. 2026 The support wasn’t limited to volleyball, either. Ryan Brennan april 22, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2026
Noun
Counsell, whose team was not playing the Dodgers, brought it up when asked about the roster limits. Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2026 In a public park, anyone can, within these limits, have their say. Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for limit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for limit
Verb
  • As with its counterparts, Washington’s law does not restrict the types of other professional activities an agent may pursue while representing athletes.
    Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 22 Apr. 2026
  • Sometimes, people don’t like being restricted and get messy when limits are put on their relationships.
    Ashley Oerman, SELF, 22 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • But Friday was the collapse that may define their season.
    Dan Woike, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Our world will continue to evolve rapidly — but the enduring values that define a person should not.
    Peter Folan, Boston Herald, 25 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • His voice and his music are unfailingly tasteful and pleasant, which is a key part of both his appeal and limitations.
    George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026
  • Economic strain is routine, and budgets are rife with limitations.
    CNN Staff, CNN Money, 23 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • This shows the height of the mountain Democrats must climb.
    Editorial, Boston Herald, 24 Apr. 2026
  • Stocks pulled back from their record heights on a shaky Wall Street on Thursday following mixed profit reports from Tesla and other big companies.
    Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Even after Tuesday’s start, Gil, who still has a minor league option and isn’t an ideal candidate for the bullpen, remains the low man on the depth chart.
    Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 22 Apr. 2026
  • The Royals plan to build an entertainment district around the stadium to generate steady profits, though the depths of those plans are not yet clear.
    Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 22 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • However, with these clear boundaries in place, there’s still confusion.
    Bruce Staley, Sun Sentinel, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Savannah Guthrie is making sure her return to Today is as smooth as possible, even drawing strict boundaries with security.
    Allison DeGrushe, StyleCaster, 21 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Limit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/thesaurus/limit. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.

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