What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
threshold
Example
Please wipe your feet before crossing the threshold. [threshold: noun]
Example
The company has set a threshold for minimum sales performance. [threshold: noun]
Example
The noise level has reached the threshold for a noise complaint. [threshold: noun]
limit
Example
The speed limit on this road is 50 miles per hour. [limit: noun]
Example
There is a limit to how much I can eat in one sitting. [limit: noun]
Example
We need to limit our expenses to stay within our budget. [limit: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Limit is more commonly used than threshold in everyday language. Limit is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while threshold is less common and refers to a specific starting point or minimum level.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between threshold and limit?
Both threshold and limit can be used in formal and informal contexts, but threshold may be more formal due to its less frequent use in everyday language.
