Limitation

Definition

A restriction or constraint on the amount or extent of something possible or allowed.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: lim-i-TAY-shun (with "lim" as in "limb," "i" as in "sit," "TAY" as in "say," and "shun" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: lim-i-TAY-shun (with "lim" as in "limb," "i" as in "sit," "TAY" as in "say," and "shun" as in "nation")

In both dialects, "limitation" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "TAY." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "lim-i-TAY-shun."

Etymology

The term "limitation" is derived from the Late Latin word "limitationem" meaning "a bounding or marking off", which itself stems from "līmitāre", the verb form of "līmes", meaning "a boundary, limit".

Derivatives

• Limited
• Limit
• Limitless
• Delimitation
• Self-limitation

Synonyms

• Restriction
• Constraint
• Bound

Antonyms

• Liberation
• Freedom
• Infinity

Usage

Limitations are commonly referred to in contexts such as legal statutes, physical capacities, technological capabilities, and personal abilities.

Related Terms

• Constraint: A limitation or restriction.
• Boundary: A line that marks the limits of an area; a dividing line.
• Restriction: A limiting condition or measure, especially a legal one.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Limitation (Noun): A restriction or boundary that defines the extent of something.
  • Example: "The limitations of the new software were quickly discovered by the users."

• Limitation (Noun): The act of limiting or the state of being limited.
  • Example: "The athlete was frustrated by the physical limitations caused by his injury."