Translation guide
The English word 'limit' can refer to a maximum allowable amount, a boundary or restriction, or the act of setting such a boundary. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on whether you're talking about a numerical cap, a physical or abstract boundary, or the verb 'to limit'.
Expressing a cap on quantity, time, money, etc.
The most general word for a limit or restriction on something. Can be used for time, quantity, speed, etc.
時間制限があります。
There is a time limit.
ダウンロードの制限はありません。
There is no download limit.
Upper limit, maximum. Often used for numerical caps like price, age, or quantity.
年齢の上限はありません。
There is no upper age limit.
予算の上限を決めましょう。
Let's set a budget limit.
Limit in the sense of a boundary that should not be exceeded, often implying a natural or reasonable limit.
我慢の限度を超えた。
It exceeded the limit of my patience.
クレジットカードの限度額はいくらですか。
What is the credit card limit?
Limit as the utmost boundary, often physical or mental. Can mean 'breaking point'.
体力の限界だ。
I've reached my physical limit.
これは技術の限界です。
This is the limit of the technology.
Talking about the edge of an area, scope, or what is allowed.
Scope, range, or limits of something. Often used for the extent of a topic, area, or authority.
この範囲を超えないでください。
Please do not go beyond this limit.
責任の範囲を明確にしましょう。
Let's clarify the limits of responsibility.
Boundary, border. More concrete than 範囲, often used for physical or conceptual dividing lines.
As far as, to the extent of. Often used in set phrases like できる限り (as much as possible).
Expressing the action of setting a limit.
To limit, restrict. The most direct verb form.
砂糖の摂取を制限しています。
I'm limiting my sugar intake.
アクセスを制限する必要があります。
We need to limit access.
To limit, restrict to a specific group or condition. Often used for limited editions or special offers.
このサービスは会員に限定されています。
This service is limited to members.
数量限定で販売します。
We will sell it in limited quantities.
To limit, restrict. Often used in the pattern ～に限る (limited to ~) or ～とは限らない (not necessarily).
Specifically referring to the maximum speed allowed on roads.
The standard term for speed limit.
ここは速度制限が時速40キロです。
The speed limit here is 40 km/h.
制限 is a general restriction or limit set by rules. 限度 is a limit that should not be exceeded, often implying a reasonable boundary. 限界 is the ultimate limit, often physical or mental, beyond which something cannot go.
利用制限があります。
There are usage restrictions.
我慢の限度だ。
This is the limit of my patience.
人間の限界に挑戦する。
Challenge the limits of human ability.
The loanword リミット is used in some contexts (e.g., time limit in games), but it's not as versatile as the English 'limit'. Stick to native Japanese words for most situations.
県の境界を越えた。
We crossed the prefectural limit.
Please come as soon as possible (within your limits).
Participants are limited to women.
お金があれば幸せとは限らない。
Having money doesn't necessarily mean you're happy (not limited to that).
Also means speed limit, often seen on signs.
制限速度を守りましょう。
Let's obey the speed limit.