limitation
5 synonyms and 1 antonym for limitation, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A restriction on what something can do or how far it can go; a shortcoming.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use limitation
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
statute of limitations
know your limitations
a serious limitation
Etymology
From Latin limitatio, built on limit plus -ation.
Full origin of limitation →Frequently asked questions
What does “limitation” mean?
The word “limitation” means a restriction on what something can do or how far it can go; a shortcoming. In plain terms, a restriction or weak point, or (in law) a time cutoff for filing a claim.
How do you pronounce “limitation”?
“Limitation” is pronounced lih-mih-TAY-shuhn (/lɪmɪˈteɪʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “limitation” in a sentence?
Here is “limitation” used in a sentence: “The software has some limitations when handling large files.”
What is the opposite of “limitation”?
The opposite of “limitation” — its antonyms — is limitlessness.
What part of speech is “limitation”?
“Limitation” is a noun.
Where does the word “limitation” come from?
The word “limitation” comes from Latin. From Latin limitatio, built on limit plus -ation.
Is “limitation” a common word?
“Limitation” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “limitation” have?
“Limitation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a restriction on what something can do or how far it can go; a shortcoming.
What is the difference between "limitation" and "restriction"?
"Limitation" typically describes an inherent shortcoming or constraint on what something can do, such as "the limitations of the software." "Restriction" more often refers to an externally imposed rule or control, though the two words overlap closely in everyday use.
What is the difference between a "limitation" and a "limit"?
A "limit" is a specific boundary or maximum point, while a "limitation" is the broader restriction or shortcoming that results from that boundary. For example, a speed limit is the number itself, while the limitation is the constraint it places on driving.
