Limitation
ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃən
Definitions
2 meaningsA restriction on something.
ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃən
A restriction or control on the size or amount of something.
The budget imposed a severe limitation on our spending.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building with LEGOs, but you only have a few bricks. That's a limitation! It's anything that stops you from doing as much as you'd like.
👶 For kids: A limitation is like when you can't have everything you want. Maybe you can only have one cookie!
More Examples
There are limitations to human knowledge.
The limitations of the technology were frustrating.
How It's Used
"There are limitations on the amount of funding available for the project."
"The statute of limitations sets a time limit for filing a lawsuit."
"The software has some limitations, such as slow processing speed."
A shortcoming or failing.
ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃən
A fault or failing.
His only limitation was his lack of experience.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to run a marathon, but you get tired after a mile. Your limited stamina is a limitation! It's something you're not good at, or can't do.
👶 For kids: Sometimes you can't do everything. When that happens, you have a limitation, like not being able to fly.
More Examples
Acknowledging your limitations can help you improve.
The car’s limitations became apparent during the off-road driving.
How It's Used
"She was aware of her own limitations."
"Recognizing and overcoming personal limitations is key to growth."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
statute of limitations
A law that specifies the maximum period during which legal action can be taken.
"The statute of limitations prevented them from filing the lawsuit."
without limitation
Without any limits or restrictions.
"The company offered a warranty without limitation."
subject to limitations
Being restricted by a set of rules or conditions.
"The offer is subject to certain limitations."
From Late Latin *limitatio*, from *limitare* ('to limit'). The word has been used in English since the late 14th century.
The word's usage in English expanded significantly in the 19th and 20th centuries, coinciding with advancements in science, law, and technology.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'limit'. A limitation is something that puts a limit on something else.