Synonyms of limit

limit 1 of 2

verb

1

as in to restrict

to set bounds or an upper limit for

limit the note to a few words

Synonyms & Similar Words

• restrict
• tighten
• confine
• cap
• hold down
• circumscribe
• hinder
• impede
• block
• suppress
• obstruct
• narrow
• hamper
• modify
• lessen
• number
• bar
• squeeze
• contract
• repress
• constrict
• qualify
• quell
• pinch

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• exceed
• expand
• broaden
• widen
• overextend
• overreach

2

as in to define

to mark the limits of

adjectives limit the meanings of nouns

Synonyms & Similar Words

• define
• bound
• mark (off)
• delimit
• circumscribe
• describe
• demarcate
• govern
• terminate
• demark
• control
• determine
• delineate

limit

2 of 2

noun

ˈli-mət 

1

as in limitation

a real or imaginary point beyond which a person or thing cannot go

there was no limit to the number of challenges they faced

Synonyms & Similar Words

• limitation
• confines
• boundary
• extent
• end
• line
• cap
• bound
• ceiling
• barrier
• termination
• edge
• border
• margin
• fence
• extremity
• terminus
• wall
• rim
• verge
• outside
• fag end
• restraint
• stop
• hedge
• brim
• bar

2

as in height

the most extreme or advanced point

those bratty kids have pushed my patience to the limit

Synonyms & Similar Words

• height
• depth
• extremity
• consummation
• ultimate
• quintessence
• epitome

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of limit

Verb

More models, more miles and more charging stations A few years ago, EV choices were limited to mostly compact sedans or pricey luxury cars. —Melanie Marshall, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 June 2025

The executive director will be limited to serving two four-year terms, however, a limitation not imposed on other watchdog agencies such as the Freedom of Information Commission. —Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 5 June 2025

Noun

But the voyage is exhausting beyond expectations, with hunger and mutiny pushing the crew to their limits. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 3 June 2025

But a system that survives only if leaders choose to respect its limits is not much of a system at all. —Daniel Treisman, The Conversation, 3 June 2025