Translation guide
The English word 'limited' can describe something that is restricted in amount, scope, or availability. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 限られた (kagirareta), but other expressions are used depending on whether you mean a limited quantity, a limited time, a limited ability, or a limited company.
Expressing that something is not unlimited; there is a cap or restriction on how much, how many, or to what extent.
The most direct and common translation for 'limited' when referring to resources, options, time, etc. It is the past participle of 限る (to limit) and functions as an adjective.
限られた予算の中で最善を尽くします。
We will do our best within the limited budget.
この地域では水資源が限られている。
Water resources are limited in this region.
Similar to 限られた, but often implies a deliberate restriction or a specific limit set by someone. Common in formal or technical contexts.
このサービスは限定された地域でのみ利用可能です。
This service is available only in limited areas.
A phrase meaning 'there is a limit'. Used to emphasize that something is finite, like time or natural resources.
時間には限りがあるので、効率的に作業しましょう。
Time is limited, so let's work efficiently.
Means 'only a little' or 'meager'. Used when the limited amount is very small. Often has a nuance of insufficiency.
わずかな情報しかない。
We have only limited information.
Specifically referring to a time-bound restriction, such as a limited-time offer or a limited period.
A set phrase meaning 'for a limited time only'. Very common in marketing and product descriptions.
この商品は期間限定で販売されます。
This product is sold for a limited time.
Literally 'with a time limit'. Used for things that have a deadline or expire after a certain time.
このオファーは時限付きです。
This offer is limited in time.
Describing a person's or thing's restricted capability, knowledge, or power.
Means 'there is a limit (to one's ability)'. Used to acknowledge that one cannot do everything.
私の能力には限界がある。
My abilities are limited.
Means 'scarce' or 'poor'. Used for limited knowledge, experience, or resources. Often formal or literary.
彼は経験が乏しい。
He has limited experience.
Referring to a type of corporation with limited liability.
The standard term for a limited liability company in Japan, often abbreviated as 有限. Note: This is a specific legal structure, not a general translation of 'limited'.
彼は有限会社を設立した。
He established a limited company.
While 限られた is the most direct translation, it may sound unnatural in some contexts. For example, 'limited time offer' is almost always 期間限定, not 限られた時間の提供. Pay attention to set phrases.
期間限定メニュー
limited-time menu
限られた is more general and often implies a natural or inherent limitation. 限定された implies a restriction imposed by someone or something. In many cases they are interchangeable, but 限定された is more formal.