Limited: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable for general situations where there is a cap or maximum amount.

• The time for the test was limited to 60 minutes
• The offer is available for a limited time only

Useful for official, legal, or regulated situations where there is a known and enforced limitation.

• Access to the laboratory is restricted to authorized personnel
• The sale of alcohol is restricted by law

Used when referring to something that is physically or metaphorically trapped within certain boundaries, often with a negative connotation.

• The prisoners were confined to their cells
• Due to the blizzard, we were confined to our house all weekend

Appropriate for mathematical, geographical, or physical boundaries.

• The garden is bounded by a small fence
• The playing field is bounded by white lines

Commonly used in formal or academic contexts to describe something that is strictly defined or restricted.

• Her role in the project was circumscribed by the management
• Their activities were circumscribed by law

Use this word to describe something that has a cap or boundary, often in quantity, amount, or scope. It can also imply a constraint but not necessarily a strict or severe one.

• The options for dining are limited in this small town.
• The company offers limited warranties on its products.

Use this word for situations where you want to limit someone's actions or access, often implying rules or laws that establish these boundaries. It can carry a more negative connotation of imposed limitations.

• The new law restricts access to certain websites.
• They decided to restrict the number of participants.

This word is suitable when describing something that is trapped or kept within certain bounds or a location. It often implies a physical or metaphorical restriction that can feel severe or constraining.

• The prisoners were confined to their cells.
• Try not to confine your thoughts to traditional methods.

This word is best for formal or official situations where you want to indicate control or maintenance according to specific rules or standards. It can imply systematic and organized control.

• The industry is highly regulated by the government.
• The thermostat helps regulate the room temperature.

Choose this word when you want to describe controlling or limiting something undesirable, often to prevent it from growing or worsening. It has a regulatory tone and often relates to behavior or actions.

• The government is implementing new policies to curb pollution.
• She tried to curb her spending habits.