limiting factor
Americannoun
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Physiology. the slowest, therefore rate-limiting, step in a process or reaction involving several steps.
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Biology. an environmental factor that tends to limit population size.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He added that power, cooling and electrical equipment were "somewhat of a limiting factor."
From Barron's ● Oct. 20, 2026
There has already been plenty of discussion about whether the 5ft 9in Londoner's stature will be a limiting factor on an ATP Tour where taller players tend to thrive.
From BBC ● Sep. 1, 2026
“The limiting factor for expansion is really rigorous validation, making sure things are completely safe,” Musk said on a call with investors in April.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 1, 2026
The limiting factor here is not range but charging speed.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 16, 2026
“The short life span has always been a prime limiting factor in education,” he told George and Julie.
From "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.