B2noun2K

Limitation

UK /["/ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the act or process of limiting or controlling somebody/something

In simple words: A restriction or something that limits you.

Examples

  • The main limitation of this device is its short battery life.
  • She was aware of her own limitations when it came to public speaking.
  • Legal limitations prevent companies from disclosing certain personal information.
  • The limitation on access to confidential files caused delays in the research.
  • Despite the limitations of the study, the results are still valuable.

Usage notes

Used when discussing constraints or boundaries in various contexts. Appropriate in formal writing or discussions about rules, challenges, or issues. Avoid in casual conversations where simpler terms might fit better.

Grammar pattern

limitation + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'limit' in 'limitation' — it shows where you can't go past.

Collocations

  • fundamental
  • important
  • major
  • impose
  • place
  • put on
  • limitation on
  • limitation to
  • fundamental
  • important
  • major
  • impose
  • place
  • put on
  • limitation on
  • limitation to
  • fundamental
  • important
  • major
  • have
  • circumvent
  • exceed
  • despite somebody’s/​something’s limitation

Synonyms

  • restriction
  • curb, restraint

Antonyms

  • advantage
  • freedom
  • openness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'limit' as a verb.
  • Using it in an informal context where it's not appropriate.
  • Misunderstanding the difference between 'limitation' and 'limiting factors'.