limitation vs Constraint

Both 'limitation' and 'constraint' are correct terms in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Limitation' refers to a restriction or a boundary that hinders something, while 'constraint' implies a limitation that is imposed by an external force or rule.

Last updated: March 11, 2025 • 990 views

limitation

The term 'limitation' is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a restriction or a boundary that hinders something.

You can use 'limitation' when talking about a restriction or a boundary that affects the performance or capabilities of something.

Examples:

One limitation of the study was the small sample size.
There are limitations to what can be achieved with the current technology.

Show examples from the web [+]

Article 3 sets the conditions for purpose limitation and proportionality.
No limitation of liability in limited partnerships.
And the biggest limitation is charity.
fishing effort limitation fixed under multi-annual management plans
The introduction of such a period of limitation corresponds to sound financial management.
The statute of limitation is 5 years.
A scope limitation may be imposed by circumstances.
But this limitation alse creates overview.
The authorities decided to remedy this limitation within Marxist dogma.
Max operating temperature: 50 ºC without power limitation.
Only computer technology has the capability of transcending this limitation.
Greece thus concludes that the limitation has been complied with.
Finland: A complaint about the illegal limitation of the applicants' rights to fish in certain waters.
Thus the method for achieving effort limitation must be refined.
Effort limitation, while necessary, must be simplified and made proportionate.
Social reasons must not lead to any limitation of rights.
Fishing effort limitation remains at the core of this revised proposal.
This limitation shall not apply during holiday periods.
This protection may include the limitation of porting abuse and the setting of speedy corrective action.
Such a limitation does not jeopardize the climate change policy goals at all.

Alternatives:

restriction
boundary
drawback
shortcoming
flaw

Constraint

The term 'constraint' is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a limitation that is imposed by an external force or rule.

You can use 'constraint' when referring to a limitation that is imposed by external factors, such as rules, regulations, or circumstances.