What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
constraint
Example
The budget constraints prevented us from hiring more staff. [constraint: noun]
Example
She felt constrained by the rules and regulations of the company. [constrained: adjective]
limitation
Example
The limitation of resources made it difficult to complete the project on time. [limitation: noun]
Example
His lack of experience was a limitation in his ability to perform the job. [limitation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Limitation is more commonly used than constraint in everyday language. Limitation is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while constraint is less common and is typically used in technical or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between constraint and limitation?
Constraint is more formal than limitation. It is often used in technical or legal contexts, while limitation can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
