limitation
UK[ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃn]US[ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃn]
n
A rule or situation that restricts or controls something.
n
The act or process of limiting or restricting something.
n
A weakness or failing that prevents someone or something from being effective.
Morpheme Breakdown
limit
ation
limit
boundary
ation
action or state
Etymology
The word 'limitation' traces its lineage to the Latin noun limes, meaning a boundary or path between fields, which itself may originate from a Proto-Indo-European root related to crossing or a threshold. The core concept of a physical border was carried into English via Old French limite. The addition of the Latinate suffix '-ation' transforms the verb 'to limit' (to set a boundary) into an abstract noun. Thus, the modern meaning evolved from the literal idea of marking a territorial limit to the abstract concepts of restriction, a controlling rule, or an inherent weakness that defines a boundary of capability.
Analysis
Structure: limit (boundary) + ation (action or state)
- limit: From Latin limes (boundary, border). Functions as the core root conveying the sense of a boundary or restriction.
- ation: From Latin -ationem (suffix forming nouns of action or state). Functions as a noun-forming suffix indicating the process or result of the action.
Examples
The main limitation of the study is its small sample size.
They imposed strict limitations on the use of water during the drought.
She was frustrated by the limitations of the old software.