off-limits

[ awf-lim-its, of- ]

/ ˈɔfˈlɪm ɪts, ˈɒf- /

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adjective

forbidden to be patronized, frequented, used, etc., by certain persons: The tavern is off-limits to soldiers.

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Question 1 of 7

Which sentence is correct?

His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

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Origin of off-limits

An Americanism dating back to 1950–55

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use off-limits in a sentence

Although the blood-spattered offices will be off-limits, staff have vowed to continue producing the magazine.
France Mourns—and Hunts|Nico Hines, Christopher Dickey|January 8, 2015|DAILY BEAST
Unfortunately, the underground tunnels that were used to transport booze and, if necessary, escaping patrons, are off-limits.
The Bars That Made America Great|Nina Strochlic|December 28, 2014|DAILY BEAST
Most art worlders are likely, I think, to agree that absolutely nothing should be off-limits for art or literature.
The Life and Art of Radical Provocateur—and Commune Leader—Otto Muehl|Anthony Haden-Guest|September 22, 2014|DAILY BEAST
There are all manner of politically-charged subjects that various advocacy groups might seek to declare off-limits.
Pediatricians Have the Right to Ask About Guns|Russell Saunders|July 30, 2014|DAILY BEAST

The island is strictly off-limits to tourists, not because it is haunted, but because it is private property.
You Can Own the Spookiest Island in Venice…If You’re Brave Enough|Barbie Latza Nadeau|April 18, 2014|DAILY BEAST
With support from the department's lawyers, they questioned the legality of using off-limits sanctions in civil rights cases.
Integration of the Armed Forces, 1940-1965|Morris J. MacGregor, Jr.
Commanders were frequently quizzed on the probable effects of the imposition of off-limits sanctions or base closings.
Integration of the Armed Forces, 1940-1965|Morris J. MacGregor, Jr.
The site remained off-limits to military and civilian personnel of the proving ground and closed to the public.
Trinity [Atomic test] Site|White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs Office
This section of the building was off-limits to the other patients in the Institute, but Stanton, the star border, had free rein.
Anything You Can Do|Gordon Randall Garrett
Those are complicated machines, those things, and they're off-limits to the likes of you and me.
Little Brother|Cory Doctorow

British Dictionary definitions for off-limits

off limits

adjective (off-limits when prenominal)

not to be entered; out of bounds

adverb

in or into an area forbidden by regulations

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

off-limits

Origin of off-limits

Words related to off-limits

How to use off-limits in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for off-limits