English Reference
adjective · noun

limited

adj. · n.
US /ˈɫɪmətəd/ UK /lˈɪmɪtɪd/ lim·it·ed UK spelling limiteds

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.kept within a certain size, amount, or area.

    adj.restricted in size, amount, or extent; often used to describe resources or capabilities that are not infinite.

    Simple

    The hotel has a limited number of rooms with a view of the ocean.

    In context

    The research team had to work with a limited budget, which forced them to prioritise the most critical experiments over secondary goals.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.not having much ability or not being very effective.

    adj.lacking breadth of ability, influence, or effectiveness.

    Simple

    His experience in marketing is limited, but he is very eager to learn.

    In context

    The initial success of the policy was limited by a lack of public awareness and insufficient infrastructure in rural areas.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate British English Law

    adj.a type of company where the owners are only responsible for a fixed amount of debt.

    adj.denoting a company (Ltd) where the liability of the shareholders is restricted to the amount they invested.

    Simple

    He decided to register his small business as a limited company.

    In context

    The transition from a sole proprietorship to a private limited company provided the founders with significant protection against personal financial liability.

    Usage

    Usually follows the company name and is abbreviated as 'Ltd'.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency American EnglishArchaic

    n.a fast train that only stops at a few important stations.

    n.a high-speed passenger train that stops only at a restricted number of major stations along its route.

    Simple

    The midnight limited sped through the countryside without stopping at the small villages.

    In context

    In the early twentieth century, the luxury limited was the preferred mode of transport for businessmen travelling between Chicago and New York.

Usage limited resources · limited benefits · limited options

There's also low rainfall and limited water, which make traditional rain-fed farming risky and low-yield.

The Local· 14 Aug 2026

From September, uniforms will be limited to three items requiring a school logo.

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated