noun

boundaries

BOWN-duh-reez

Boundaries (noun) means the limits a person sets on what they will accept from others, in order to protect their time, energy and wellbeing. Example: “He set clear boundaries about answering emails after seven.”

noun

The limits a person sets on what they will accept from others, in order to protect their time, energy and wellbeing.

"He set clear boundaries about answering emails after seven."

"Learning to hold boundaries with family took her years of practice."

The lines that mark the edges of an area, such as a country, county, garden or field.

"The hedge marks the boundaries of the property."

"Both councils dispute where the boundaries fall."

The furthest limits of what is known, allowed or possible in a field.

"Her research pushes the boundaries of what microscopes can see."

How to Use Boundaries

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe limits you set on what other people can ask of you, or the lines round the edge of a place.

When to use it

The personal-limits sense is now the most common in everyday speech and dominates writing about relationships and mental health.

Memory tip

You set boundaries for yourself and enforce them; you do not set them for other people's behaviour.

Easily confused with

barriers ultimatums borders rules →

Common pairings

set boundaries healthy boundaries respect boundaries clear boundaries cross a boundary

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

He set clear _____ about answering emails after seven.

Synonyms

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limits ground rules lines borders edges perimeters frontiers

Related Words

Lines ends outskirts parameters

Rhymes for boundaries

lies Dies flies Aries Fries duties series ladies rabies undies Davies movies

See all rhymes for boundaries →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a boundary and an ultimatum?

A boundary states what you will do to look after yourself, for example leaving a conversation that turns into shouting. An ultimatum demands that someone else change or face a punishment. Boundaries describe your own actions; ultimatums try to control another person's.

What is the difference between boundaries and walls?

Boundaries are selective and flexible: they let closeness in while keeping harm out, and they can be explained to the people they affect. Walls block everyone out indiscriminately, usually as a reaction to being hurt, and tend to prevent relationships rather than protect them.

How do you set a boundary with someone?

State the specific behaviour, say plainly what you need, and name what you will do if it continues, then follow through calmly. Short, unapologetic wording works better than long justifications, which invite negotiation.

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