Reading Theme:
Limitation: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1:a restriction (limitation)
limitation
/ˌlɪm.ɪˈteɪ.ʃən/
n.
A rule or a physical thing that stops you from doing or going beyond something.
a restriction
➕
/ə rɪˈstrɪk.ʃən/
n.
A defined boundary or rule that prevents exceeding a certain point.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'limitare' (to bound), indicating the act of setting a boundary.
💡 Mnemonic
A LIMIT station stops you from going further.
📖 Example
There is a strict limitation on the number of guests allowed in the apartment.
The apartment enforces a strict restriction on the permitted number of guests.
🔗 Collocations
statute of limitations – a law setting the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated
limitation period – the specific timeframe during which a legal action can be taken
time limitation – a restriction based on a fixed duration
🔄 Synonyms
restriction (n.) – a rule or condition that limits what is possible
constraint (n.) – a limitation or restriction that prevents free action
boundary (n.) – a real or imagined line that marks the limit of something
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'limitare' through Old French 'limitacion'. The concept of legal or formal limits (e.g., 'statute of limitations') is central to Western legal systems, emphasizing boundaries of time or action.
Meaning 2:a weakness (limitation)
limitation
/ˌlɪm.ɪˈteɪ.ʃən/
n.
A weakness or a lack of ability that someone or something has.
a weakness
➕
/ə ˈwiːk.nəs/
n.
An inherent or specific area where ability or capacity is lacking.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
He is a brilliant programmer, but his main limitation is his poor communication skills when explaining ideas.
He is a skilled programmer, yet his primary weakness is his inability to communicate ideas effectively.
🔗 Collocations
physical limitation – a restriction imposed by one's body or physical condition
limitation of resources – a constraint caused by having insufficient materials, time, or money
know your limitations – to be aware of one's own weaknesses or boundaries
🔄 Synonyms
weakness (n.) – a quality or feature regarded as a disadvantage or fault
shortcoming (n.) – a fault or failure to meet a certain standard
deficiency (n.) – a lack or shortage of a necessary quality or element
🚫 Antonyms
strength (n.) – a good or beneficial quality or attribute of a person or thing
advantage (n.) – a condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable position
capability (n.) – the power or ability to do something
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